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CONTINUED ON PAGE XX Veterans remember World War I in Mountrath Retired Irish and UN Soldiers Patrick Origan and Denis Farrell from Post 27 UN Veterans lay a wreath at the Mountrath Historical Society Great War plaque unveiling at the town's Peace Garden. More on pages 18, 30-31 PICTURE: ALF HARVEY €2 MILLION LIGHT BULBS Council: Anger at lighting spend in the middle of housing crisis MICHELLE HOGAN michelle.hogan@leinsterexpress.ie Public representatives cannot face the people of Laois when the council is spending €2million upgrading public lighting as people face homelessness everyday, accordingtoacountycouncillor. Cllr Brendan Phelan called for the €2million for lights to be postponed and put straight into housing. He was speaking at the council's revenue Budget meeting for2019onMonday.

“You could not go out and face the electorate and say we are going to put €2 million [into lighting] and how many sites could you buy for housing for that? How can we be prepared to go out and spend €2 million on upgrading lighting with people homeless every day of the week?”hesaid. This comes as Laois County Council's revenue Budget for 2019 standsat€72.05million. Express LEINSTER www.leinsterexpress.ie Titanic Show PAGE 41 PORTLAOISE FOCUS ON DUB CLUB TOWN TAKES CHAMPS Tuesday,November13,2018 €2.50(GB£3Stg) Portlaoise Musical Society 20th show preview YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER SINCE 1831 CONTINUED ON PAGE 3 g Thousands commuting for work A survey has revealed that almost 11,500 people make thedailycommutefromLaois for work, with well over two thirds of these having a third leveldegreeorhigher.

Of the 11,477 outbound commuters, the majority of workers commute to Dublin, Kildare, Carlow, Kilkenny andneighbouringOffaly. There is also a population of 791,019 people within one hour’s drive of Laois, accountingforaworkforceof 379,881. CONTINUED ON PAGE 12 g Civil service to have say on hospital Civil Servants will interpret the view of Laois doctors and local people following a consultation process on the futureofPortlaoisehospital. So revealed, the Minister for Health as he confirmed some of the details of the process.Healsorevealedthat following the HSE run consultation officials in his Department will make recommendationstohim. g WRITER NIGHT Writers' launch at Laois Literary Festival SEE PAGE 46 90 MAIN STREET, PORTLAOISE • (057) 8621332 HUGHES WAS €19.95 NOW €6.95 SAVE €13.00 Baylis & Harding Gold Clutch Bag and Bath Set BETTER THAN HALF PRICE

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie 2 NEWS Postpone lights and face housing crisis Budget 2019: How can we spend €2m on lights with homeless crisis? MICHELLE HOGAN Michelle.hogan@leinsterexpress.ie Calls were made for Laois County Council to address the current housing crisis by making cash available for houses instead of followingEUrulesforlighting. CllrBrendanPhelanspokeatthe revenue Budget Meeting 2019. He said the money should be spent on sitesforpeopletobuildhouses. “We are giving the wrong impression completely and I know you are coming under pressure for energyandcarbonfootprintandall the rest but no way unless it's going to be grant aided from government how can we be prepared to go out and spend € 2 million on upgrading lighting with people homeless everydayoftheweek?

“I agree it is the way to go with lighting and the carbon footprint buttogooutandsaywearegoingto spend €2m we should say we are postponing that alone and we are going to put that funding into purchasesites. “There is no point in saying we are going to improve our public lighting with people homeless all overthecounty,”hesaid. County Manager John Mulholland said the lighting is ‘internationalprotocol’. “There will be a pay back by the end of a particular period and what we have to pay on public lighting willbelesswhichmeanswecanput more into other areas and I think that is logical, it is a matter of timing,”MrMulhollandreplied. Cllr Phelan called for these regulations to be kicked back at the EUlikeothercountrieshavedone. “The major problem we have as elected public representative at the momentispeoplearehomelessand we have to be seen to be trying to address that. Kick it back to the EU kick it back, every other country is kickingitback,”hesaid. Laois County Council revenue Budget for 2019 stands at €72.05 million. Of this, €12.38 million is allocatedforhousingandbuilding. Cllr Catherine Fitzgerald said this budget is just ‘covering the cracks’ of a homeless crisis that she cannotseeasolutionto.

“Idon’tknowhowitisgoingtobe solved, it is only getting worse. The Budgetfiguresspeakforthemselves - we expect this to get worse. There are people left in impossible situations and they jump the housing list before people who are waiting years. This budget is really only covering the cracks there is no solution in this budget. I can’t see any progress this will be worse next year unless we have bricks, mortar and land, I can’t see an answer,” she said. Minister Eoghan Murphy cutting the ribbon on 33 new houses at Conniberry Way, Portlaoise PICTURE: MICHAEL SCULLY Portarlington singers hit the right note in Remembrance Archdeacon Leslie Stevenson and Dr Larry Fullam's Choir, at the Ecumenical Service of Remembrance at St Paul's French Church Portarlington, on Friday last PICTURE: MICHAEL SCULLY.

Car crash vicitim a Portlaoise resident The man who was killed in lastweek'scarcrashbetween Stradbally and Carlow had beenlivinginPortlaoise. Eagnis Karvalis, was aged in his 40s, had an address in Conniberry Way. A Latvian national,healsohadfamilyin Carlow. Gardaí investigating the fatal crash on the Portlaoise to Carlow stretch of the N80 at Simmons Mill Cross appealed witnesses or dashcam footage. Gardaí would like to speak to anyone who saw a dark coloured salooncarorawhitecoloured saloon car travelling on the N80 between Stradbally and Arles between 8am and 9am on Tuesday, November 6. They are appealing to anyone with dash cam footage who travelled that stretch of road. The two car collision occurredshortlybefore9am. The occupants of the other car, a woman aged in her30s,andherchild,aged2, received injuries. From outside Carlow, they were taken to the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise and Crumlin Children's Hospital.

Port public meeting on traffic lights A public meeting on the impact of traffic lights will take place in Portarlington tonight (Tuesday, November 13) The meeting will take place at 7.30pm at the Community Centre. The traffic lights, at the junction of Main Street and Crowe Lane beside the library, were designed to help drivers exit and enter Crowe Lane and were installed by Laois County Council at a cost of €65,000 and turned on last summer. However, the public had a strong reaction to them during the summer, with at one stage nearly 200 comments online either for or against them. 11,500 people commute from Laois each day Work: 80 percent of commuters have third level degree or higher, new survey reveals Around 11,500 people commute from Laois for work, with well over two thirds of these having a third leveldegreeorhigher.

In February 2018 the Business Support Unit launched the Laois Commuter Survey with the aim of building a commuter profile detailing the skills, education and employmentsectorsofthecounty’s 11,477outboundcommuters. The survey was a huge success and has enabled Laois County Council to build a comprehensive profile of our commuter workforce which can now be used to promote Laoisasaplacetodobusiness. The survey revealed that of the 11,477 outbound commuters 77% (8,847) have a third level degree or higherwiththemajorityofworkers commuting to Dublin, Kildare, Carlow,Kilkennyandneighbouring Offaly.

Laois commuters have a wide varietyofskillsandareinvolvedina number of key industries. 6,033 of our highly educated workforce are employed in business & IT (1,671), healthcare (1,443), training & development (1,084), manufacturing (944) and retail/wholesale services (891) alone. Whenpresentedwiththesurvey results, Ken Whitelaw IDA regional manager for the Midlands stated: “IDA Ireland welcomes the publication of the Laois Commuter Survey. The findings of this survey show that Laois has a significant pool of qualified, multilingual and mobile talent within and around the county. Understanding the skills profile of a location is a key factor for potential investors when considering where to place their investment, so having this insight will assist in how we position the areaforforeigndirectinvestment.“ With the information now on hand, Laois and the IDA are well placed to increase their promotion of the County as a business destination, building on the recent announcements of major investment from Glanbia, Pat McDonagh and US IT firm skOUT. This vote of confidence will ensure that Laois is well positioned to become the centrally located logisticsanddistributionhubofthe Midlands.

As part of the commuter survey three €250 vouchers were given away for the luxurious Midlands ParkHotel.Theprizewinnerswere Claire Cowhig, James Morning and Jody Davis. The winners collected their vouchers on Thursday November 8 where James Morning was presented with his prize by the Cathaoirleach, Cllr John King, Denise Rainey (BSU) and Evelyn Reddin(LaoisLEO). Stats revealed by the recent Business Support Unit Laois Commuter Survey show that a lot of people leave the county for employment each day NEWS 3 NEWS REPORTER news@leinsterexpress.ie MICHELLE HOGAN, CONOR GANLY news@leinsterexpress.ie NEWS 1-19 VIEWS 20-21 COMMUNITY 25-39 BUSINESS 22-23 LAOIS LIFE 41-47 SPORT 66-80 Pat Shortt “Sheer talent” Irish Echo, Sydney i n H I S N E W L I V E S H O W “The man’s a comedic genius” One Magazine, New York Friday 16th November 2018 Abbeyleix Manor Hotel, Laois Tickets: 057 8730111 / Ticketmaster.ie

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie 4 NEWS Water supply still low due to drought Supply: Irish Water explain Portlaoise supply problem The levels of water in wells serving almost 30,000 people in Portlaoise are critically low because it has not recovered from the summer drought,accordingtoIrishWater. The concern over the lack of water led water management company to issue a statement to the public appealing for help in conserving water in the coming weeks. John O’Donoghue is the Irish Water Operations Manager for the EastandMidlands.

"Under normal weather conditions, water levels would drop over the summer but then start to replenish in September and October. “This has not been the case this year. Continued low rainfall levels mean the water supply is at an historic low. Even if there was a prolonged spell of heavy rain, it would take a number of months for that rain to percolate through soils andbedrocktorechargetheaquifers and become available for abstraction,"hesaid. Irish Water engineer John Gavin told the Leinster Express why Portlaoise is experiencing a historic lowinwatersupplylevels.

“Thewellsarequitedeep,itmight rain today but it takes a long time to go deep down where wells are through the layers of rock. Met Éireann reported a moisture deficit of 80 percent in the ground during the summer drought and that has to be replaced before water goes down deeper. What is more concerning is the rain we are getting isn't a huge amount and any rain that does fall is stilljustcoveringthedeficit. “From May to now there has been 50 percent of the rain that would normallyfall.Thisisverylowandhas not been experienced before. The amountofwateravailablehasgreatly diminished.

“There hasn’t been a huge amount of rainfall restoring soil moisture in the last couple of months,”hesaid. The wells are not expected to fill up anytime soon as it can take a long time for water moisture to be restored in the ground and then for water to soak down through the many layers of rock and into the wells deepbelowtheground. This water would usually be pumped to be treated and then pumped to homes and businesses but it has not been replenished since the droughtinsummer. Theamountofwaterlostthrough leaks in Portlaoise is around 30 percent which is lower than it has beeninthepast.

IrishWaterfoundthewaterlevels so concerning that it issued an appeal to people on the Portlaoise Water Supply Scheme to conserve waterinorder toreducethedemand on the increasingly lowering supply of water forthearea. Whileithasnotmadea definite decision yet, nighttime cuts to the water supply are highly likelyinthecomingweeks and throughout winter. Reduction in demand, along with prolonged, heavy rainfall, are necessary to avoid ongoingrestrictions. Hosepipe ban was in place for much of the summer in Laois 30 Water wastage in Portalaoise has dropped to 30% Water cuts on the cards for Portlaoise Irish Water is appealing to customers on the Portlaoise Water Supply Scheme to conservewater.

The utility is advising that water restrictions may be necessary in the coming weeks as water levels continue to drop in the aquifers that supply water to theScheme. Homes and businesses on the public water supply in Portlaoise and surrounding areas are supplied by groundwater that comes from a number of local aquifer sources. The aquifers are underground lakes from which water is extracted via well fields and then piped to the water treatment plant at Kilminchy before being deliveredtocustomers. After the exceptionally drysummer,theaquifersthat feed the sheme do not have sufficient storage to sustain a full water supply neded to meet to meet demand over thecomingmonthsincluding Christmas.

The company says that approximately 28,000 customers depend on the Portlaoise Water Supply Scheme for their residential andbusinessneeds. It is looking more and more likely that restrictions may be unavoidable and people need to be aware of what may be coming down theline. The company appealed to customers to conserve water whereverpossibleandreport any leaks they see, immediately to Irish Water on1850278278.’ Irish Water continues to carry out a range of works in order to avoid the implementation of restrictions. The company says these include: Finding and fixing leaks on the Portlaoise water scheme replace- ment of aging water mains in order to combat the leakage. Irish Water says it is is also currently at design stage of a project to put in additional wells into production at the Coolbanagher Wellfield including the laying of 1.4 kms of pipeline to connect the wells to the existing network.

It is planned to award a contract for this work before the end of this year with works due to be completed in early 2019. MICHELLE HOGAN michelle,hogan@leinsterexpress.ie MICHELLE HOGAN michelle.hogan@leinsterexpress.ie NEWS ON THE MOVE: The Leinster Express website is the No 1 digital source of local news and sport. Visit www.leinsterexpress.ie CELEBRATING Contact our advertising team 057 8621666 A BUSINESS ANNIVERSARY? PROMOTE YOUR BUSINESS WITH AN ADVERTISING FEATURE www.leinsterexpress.ie Express LEINSTER www.leinsterexpress.ie

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie 6 NEWS Body cameras at new violent prison unit Development: One of the most significant in years A new unit to manage and rehabilitate high-risk and violent prisoners has opened at the prison complex in Portlaoise and will see officers using body cameras on a pilotbasis. The National Violence Reduction Unit (VRU) is being described as one of the most significant developmentsinrecentyears. Apart from taking a new approach to the management of violentprisoners.

Opening the unit the Laois TD and Minister for Justice & Equality Charlie Flanagan said it was a flagshipunit. "The establishment of the unit marks a significant change in how the Irish Prison Service (IPS) engages with those prisoners who represent the highest risk of violence to you our staff, to other prisoners and to our communities," hesaid. A key feature of the management structure of this Unit is the significantly enhanced role of the Psychology Service. As a result, this new Unit will be co-led by Assistant Governor Constantine Cazac and SeniorPsychologistDrLucyRowell. The Irish Prison Service says the unit will house the most challenging prisoners including those with a history of extreme violence towards otherprisonersandstaff.

The unit will be capable of housing six violently disruptive prisoners and up to a further four prisoners who will be admitted for the purpose of intensive assessment. TheIPSsaysthisisthefirstco-led unit of its kind in the Irish Prison Service and represents significant culturechange. The IPS says unit contains a number of physical innovations which will allow prison staff to interact with prisoners without the need to use a technique called “barrier handling” in which the offender is surrounded by staff in personal protective equipment and carryshieldsforsafety.

It is claimed the design has maximised the Prison Service's ability to have a drug free environment. The Unit has multiple areas where the prisoner may be out-of-cell,yetcontained. Additional safety features being trialledontheUnitincludetheuseof concealed batons as standard issue forofficersworkingontheunit. In addition, the Irish Prison Service is trialling on a pilot basis, the use of individual body-worn cameras on the Unit. Such cameras are mandatory for officers deployed totheunit. Fergal Black, Director of Care and Rehabilitation; Dr. Emma Black, Head of Psychology; MInister Charlie Flanagan TD and Michael Donnellan, Director General of the Irish Prison Service in the Violence Rehabilitation Unit at the Midlands Prison. Picture: Alf Harvey.

Substantial prison officer recruitment needed More than 450 men and women are expected to have completed some or all of their training as prison officersinthethreeyearstotheend of 2019, according to the Irish PrisonService. Apart from catching up with the recruitment freeze during the crash, the new recruits are needed to keep pace with expected retirements. Twenty of the new recruits passed out at the Brian Stack Training College in Portlaoise this week, according to the service which also confirmed that 192 officers completed phase 1 of their trainingin2018.

The Service said 85 officers qualified in 2017 and up to 200 are expectedtocompletetheirtraining nextyear. The ramping up of recruitment follows a freeze on the hiring and training of prison offers imposed duringtheeconomiccrash. A huge number of candidates appliedtoworkasprisonofficersat jailsinPortlaoiseandotherpartsof Irelandatthestartofarecruitment campaigninearly2018. Some 2,500 men and women submittedapplications.Nearly300 prison posts and other jobs were advertisedinearly2018. Laois TD and Minister for Justice was present at the passing out of the 6th class to complete training in 2018 when he also opened a multi-million euro overhaulofthetrainingcollege. “This is important as we seek to return staffing levels in our prisons to their authorised numbers and it will allow scope for the Service to keep pace with expected retirements,”hesaid. He added that there has been sgnificant investment in prison staff with the enhancement and developmentoftrainingfacilitiesto supportrecruitment.

MInister Charlie Flanagan TD and Michael Donnellan, Director General of the Irish Prison Service in the Midlands Prison. PICTURE: ALF HARVEY. 'Absolutely vital' prison officer families The families of prison officers are an “absolutely vital support” according to Laois TD and Minister for JusticeCharlieFlanagan. Speaking at the Irish Prison Service Brian Stack TrainingCollegeinPortlaoise Minister Flanagan praised newandservingofficers. “Your work is challenging and important. In many respectsitgoesunseenbythe wider community, but that does not mean it is unrecognised. You enhance public safety by both holding prisoners securely and by providing care and rehabilitation. You have the potential to make a real difference in the lives of prisoners and theirfamilies.

He said new recruits have the greatest impact on prisoner behaviour by developing the ability to interactpositively. “Prison officers influence every day through their engagement, behaviour, language, listening skills, attitudes and behaviours," he said. Minister Flanagan had a special word of praise for families. “CanIalso,finally,takethe opportunity to thank your families and indeed all families of prison officers for their continued support. That support is absolutely vital. Our officers are sometimes faced with stressful situations as they deal with extremely vulnerable people on a daily basis.

“These situations and experiences are not something that can be easily left behind when they leave theprison,butitiswhereyou, their families, can help most, by providing the ongoing support, acceptance and understanding of the complex role of a prison officer,”hesaid. He said prison officers workinapotentially stressful environment where they encounter conflict and distress but he encouraged new recruits. "There aremanykey competencies required for the role - you will need to develop the ability to direct others, to support others, to show conscientiousness, adaptability, and communicationskills. “However, you will also needresilience andto be able to manage your own stress and emotions. I want to reassure you that the Irish Prison Service will provide you with the support and skills to help you maintain good emotional and more importantly good mental health,”hesaid. Minister Flanagan was speaking following the passing out of 20 new prison officers.

He also officially opened the refurbished and expanded training college and new unit for violent prisoners. CONOR GANLY conor.ganly@leinsterexpress.ie CONOR GANLY conor.ganly@leinsterexpress.ie CONOR GANLY conor.ganly@leinsterexpress.ie

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie 8 NEWS Threw food, abused staff A Portlaoise man who threw food around in a fast food outlet and abused staff has been convicted and fined after failing to pay compensation. Owen Lawlor (36), Oakleaf Place, Portlaoise, was charged with threatening or abusive behaviour, and failure to comply with the directionsofthegardaí. When the case first came before the court in September, Sgt JJ Kirby gave evidence that on August 11, 2018, at 11.40pm, the accused was in a kebab shop in Portlaoise Top Square abusingthestaff. He was throwing food and drink around and had to be arrested.

SgtJJKirbysaidthegardaí indicated the accused had shownregretforhisactions. The accused had three previousconvictions. Judge Catherine Staines noted that the accused had plenty of money for drink, so he could stop drinking for a few months and save up €300 compensation. She then adjourned the case to November8. Whenthecasereturnedto court last week, solicitor Mr Barry Fitzgerald said his client did not have the compensation as he had only started work, but he would haveitinthreeweeks. Judge Staines convicted andfinedtheaccused€300. 'Last Post' sounded in Mountmellick Eoin O'Connor plays the 'Last Post' at the Mountmellick World War I Armistice Day centenary memorial last Sunday at Mountmellick Library where the town's World War I memorial is located PICTURE: DENIS BYRNE Man four times over the limit thought he was able to drive DISQUALIFIED A Polish national has been put off the road for three years for drink driving four timesoverthelimit.

Radoslaw Prygiel (37), Apartment 1A, Dunkeelin Terrace, Portumna, Co. Galway, was charged with drink driving at the M7, Borris in Ossory, on September28thisyear. Sgt Jason Hughes told Portlaoise District Court that the accused had no previous convictions. Through a Polish interpreter, the accused said: “As I was getting into the car I thoughtthelevelofalcoholin my body was not above the law, I thought that I was able todrive.” Said Judge Catherine Staines to the interpreter: “You can tell him he was four timesoverthelimit.” The accused was convictedandfined€300and disqualified from driving for threeyears.

Recognisance was fixed in theeventofanappeal. Abbeyleix man facing number of charges THEFTS An Abbeyleix man has been charged with a number of drugs and theft offences, including stealing legs of lambfromalocalstore. Gerard Fennelly (40), Rathmoyle, Abbeyleix, was charged with drug possession and having drugs for sale or supply, at Portlaoise Garda Station on May3thisyear;theftofpetrol from a filling station in Portlaoise on July 10; criminal damage, at MoanbaunClose,Mountrath, on May 31; theft from Dunnes Stores,KyleShoppingCentre, Portlaoise, on June 17; and theft of three legs of lamb, from Aldi, Portlaoise, on October6.

At last week's court, Sgt Jason Hughes said the accused had 22 previous convictions,thevastmajority ofwhichwerefortheft. Sgt Hughes said the accused had not come to gardaattentionsince. Defence, Mr Barry Fitzgerald said his client developed a heroin addiction very late in life, which spiralledoutofcontrol. Thematterwasadjourned to December 20 next for a probationreport. ABUSIVE Daughter allegedly 'admitted telling lies' at Midlands Prison visit APPEAL A young woman whose father was convicted of repeatedly raping her visited him in the Midlands Prison Portlaoise where she allegedly “admitted telling lies" during his trial,theCourtofAppealhasheard.

In February, the47-year-old man was found guilty of sexually assaulting and raping his daughter in various ways in Co Mayo and abroad on dates between 2006 and 2010 when she was aged between sevenandeleven. Their details must not be published to protect the victim’s identity. The Central Criminal Court heard that the first rape took place shortly after the death of her mother. He referred to her by her dead mother's name and continued to do so during subsequent attacks, the courtheard. Describing his offending as “depraved”, Ms Justice Deirdre Murphy sentenced him to 15 years imprisonment with the final year suspended. The man had pleaded not guilty to all offences and continues to maintain his innocence.

In a motion to adduce “new evidence” before the Court of Appeal last Wednesday, the man’s barrister, Micheál P O’Higgins SC, said the victim subsequently “recanted”and“admittedtellinglies duringthetrial”. The Court of Appeal heard that the fact of the prison visit having occurredisnotindispute. The court heard evidence from the man’s former solicitor, now a witness in the case, who corroborated the daughter’s admission that she “told lies during thetrial”.

The Court of Appeal was due to hear evidence from the victim via videolinkonWednesday. However, the court was told the victimhadleftthejurisdiction. She had “taken off”, Mr O’Higgins said, and would not be making herself available for cross-examination. The three-judge court issued an order to have her evidence heard on January11next. The hearing resumes in January beforeMrJusticeJohnEdwards,Ms Justice Máire Whelan and Mr JusticePatrickMcCarthy. COURT Judge Catherine Staines

9 LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Claims had replica shotgun due to threats from drug dealers A Czech national caught with an imitation firearm who claimed he had the replica shotgun as he had been threatened over a drug debt has been given the benefit of theprobationact. Martin Cermak (19), Hawthorn Way, Esker Hills, Portlaoise, was charged with possession of an imitation firearm, at the Ridge Road, Portlaoise. When he first appeared in court in September, Sgt JJ Kirby gave evidence that on March 5 this year, a number of 999 calls were made concerning a male armed withafirearm.

Witnesses reported that themanwaswalkingtowards theRidgeRoadandthegardaí attended the scene, where they located the accused in possessionofashotgun. He was approached and told to drop the weapon, which he did, and was arrested. SgtKirbysaidtherewasno sinister motive to the incident, with a ballistics report indicating that the item was a realistic imitation firearm, a replica pump actionshotgun. The accused had no previousconvictions. Defence, Mr Barry Fitzgerald admitted that the item could have been viewed as being real, which could havecausedalarm.

The accused purchased the replica firearm, which was a pellet gun, in a local shop. Mr Fitzgerald said that Cermak, a Czech national living in Ireland a number of years, had developed a serious cannabis addiction and ran up a debt, which led tothreatsbeingmadeagainst himsoheboughtthegun. It was foolish, said Mr Fitzgerald, and the accused had cooperated with the gardaíatthescene. Thematterwasadjourned for a probation report and when the case returned to court last Thursday, Sgt Jason Hughes said that the accused has not come to gardaattentionsince. Judge Catherine Staines described the offence as an aberration and said it was unlikely the accused would offend again. She applied the probationact,section1.1. Charged with knifepoint robbery A Portlaoise man has been charged in connection with a knifepointrobbery.

Atlastweek’ssittingofthe district court, Robert Dwane (24), with addresses in Portlaoise, was charged with two counts of robbery, at Millbrook, Portlaoise, on November3last. Garda evidence said that when the accused was madenoreply. There are no DPP directionsinthecase. Det Garda JP O’Brien said the State was objecting to bail, but solicitor, Mr Barry Fitzgerald said there was no applicationforbail. The accused was remanded in custody to Cloverhill District Court on November 15 next, for DPP Claimed €3,000 from employer but didn't do the work ADublinmanwhosubmitted timesheets for payment to a Laoiscompanyheworkedfor, but did not actually do the work, has been warned he willgotoprisonifhedoesnot keep his appointments with theprobationservice. Before Portlaoise District CourtwasJordanLawlor(26), Sandyhill Gardens, Ballymun, Dublin, charged with eight counts of theft by deception, between October 22, 2017 and December 10, 2017.

When the case first came before the court in July, Detective Garda Michael O’Donovan gave evidence that the accused had been employed by Laois ScaffoldingandonOctober16 last year, the foreman of the work site in Dublin took holidays. The accused then neverturnedupforwork,but submitted timesheets for a totalofeightweeks’work. The total loss to the companywas€3,158.32. Judge Catherine Staines adjourned the case for a probation report and compensation. Whenthecasereturnedto court last week, Judge Staines noted that the accused had not kept any appointments with the probationservice. Defence, Mr Barry Fitzgerald said that the accused had €200 compensation,butheneeded to get his P45 from his previous employer, the injured party, and matters had broken down between themduetothisoffence. JudgeStainessaidtheonly reason the accused was not going to prison was because she wanted the compensationtobepaid. She told the State to contact the injured party asking them to give the accused his P45 so he can get back to work and pay compensation.

Warning the accused that if he failed to keep any more appointmentshewasgoingto prison, the matter was adjourned to March 7, for a probation report and compensation. Punched man and smashed window A man assaulted his brother-in-law’s neighbour andsmashedawindowwitha golf club following an altercationwhiledrunk. Gary Cullen, 27 St Aongus Green, Tallaght, Dublin 24, waschargedwithassault,and criminal damage, at 19 The Green, Kilminchy, Portlaoise, onAugust27,2017. Detective Garda JP O’Brien gave evidence that the accused was visiting a friend when an altercation began between the accused andtheinjuredparty. The accused was intoxicated and verbally abusive and he attempted to hit the injured party, but was unabletodoso.

The injured party went into his house and attempted to close the door, but the accused place his foot in the doorway and pushed the other man, then punched himmorethanonce. Det O’Brien said the accused also used a golf club tosmashawindow. Defence, Mr Philip Meagher said the accused had been visiting his former brother-in-law. His brother-in-law is in a wheelchair and the neighbour brings him in food, and on the day the accused was outside while the other man was watering hisgarden. The accused made a remark to the man thanking him for looking after the accused’sbrother-in-law,but for some reason the neighbour took umbrage and one word followed another until the accused entered his garden.

The accused flailed out, but missed and fell, said Mr Meagher. The case was adjourned to February 14 next, for a restorative justice report and victimimpactreport. Abbeyleix man put off the road An Abbeyleix man has been put off the road for drink driving. Tony Kavanagh (62), Thornberry, Abbeyleix, was charged with dangerous driving and drink driving on March26last. Defence, Mr Declan Breen said the accused had an unblemished record for 40-oddyears. On the day of the offence he travelled to meet a friend and fell into company, drinking too much. He tried to get a taxi and couldn’t, said MrBreen.

Judge Staines convicted and fined the accused €300 and disqualified him from drivingforthreeyears. Dropped his trousers at the gardaí A bench warrant was issued for the arrest of a 32-year-old man who dropped his trousers in the street and abused the gardaí, after he failed to turn up in court last week having been found unsuitable for community service. Dara Kearns (32), The Hermitage, Borris Road, Portlaoise, was charged with threatening or abusive behaviour, and failure to thegardaí. When the case first came before the district court in September, Sgt JJ Kirby gave evidence that on July 9 this year, at Jessop Street, Portlaoise, the accused was verbally abusive to the gardaí anddroppedhistrousers.

Pepper spray had to be deployed and the accused wasarrested. The accused had 29 previous convictions, five for roadtrafficmatters. Asked Judge Catherine Staines:“Whydidyoufeelthe need to take your trousers down?” Replied the accused: “I wasdrunk.” He told the court he had drankeighttotenpintsonthe night. Telling the accused he needed to grow up and stop drinking, Judge Staines put the matter back to November report, recommending 100 hours’ community service in lieu of three months in jail. The accused was also directed to pay €100 compensation.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie NEWS PORTLAOISE COURT 11 Mountrath woman charhged with theft A Mountrath woman has been charged with shoplifting. Sgt Jason Hughes gave evidence that on October 7 last, Caroline Hyland (35), 16 Moanbaun, Mountrath, entered Dunnes Stores, Kyle Shopping Centre, Portlaoise andstolegoodsworth€17. Defence, Ms Thomasina Connellsaidthattheaccused, a single mother of two, had been going through an extremely stressful period and on the day of the offence feltthatshewasexperiencing kleptomania and couldn’t helpherself.

Thematterwasadjourned to February 7 next for a probationreport. Had €5,000 of drugs in Midlands Prison An inmate of the Midlands Prison found in possession of almost €5,000 of drugs has been allowed to continue cooperating with the probationserviceandreceive treatmentforhisissues. Christian Hallihan, Castlemanor Crescent, Castlemartyr, Cork, is charged with bringing drugs intoaplaceofdetention. When the case first came before the district court in January, Inspector Ger Glavin gave evidence that on May 2, 2016, while an inmate of the Midlands Prison, the accused was observed having a bag passed to him which contained drugs valued at €4,980.

Among the drugs was cannabis, tablets, cocaine, amphetamines, diamorphine,andMDMA. The accused had 50 previousconvictions. Defence for the accused handed in a number of reportstothecourt,outlining that the accused had been diagnosed with autism, after a preliminary diagnosis of Asperger’s. Defence said that the accused has difficulty in understanding the repercussions of his actions and difficulty in planning his ownlife. A report on the accused after his release in October, 2016, indicated he was addressing his underlying drug use issues, continued defence.

Defence went on to say that the accused got a serious scare in August of 2017 followingacardiacincident. At the time of the offence, he was under certain debts which he was under pressure topay. He very much regrets his actions,concludeddefence. Judge Catherine Staines said that a report on the accused indicated he was at a high risk of reoffending and wasn’t going to his appointments. She said this was not a goodreport. However, defence said thatthisreportwasfrom2015 andthatthereportfrom2016 showed the accused had turnedthingsaround. Judge Catherine Staines said they were very serious offences, but noted that the accused was now engaging with all services available to him and staying out of trouble.

The judge put the matter back to April 26 for an up to date probation report, saying that if the report was positive the accused wouldn’t be goingtoprison. Whenthecasereturnedto court on that date, after reading the probation report Judge Staines noted the accused was assessed at a very high risk of reoffending and she had to consider a prisonsentence. Defence said that there had been a serious event in the recent past and the accused was admitted to hospital for mental health issues. Judge Staines then adjourned the matter for an up to date report and expressed her hope that the accused would go for residentialtreatment. “That’stheonlyreasonI’m not imposing a sentence, these are very serious charges,”shesaid. Whenthecasereturnedto court last week, Judge Staines asked the accused was he going to keep attending his meetings. The accusedrepliedhewould. Judge Staines said she would follow the recommendation of the probation report and adjourned the case to February 14 next, for an up to datereport.

Prisoner held drugs and phone A prisoner has been given an additional six month sentence for having drugs andamobilephone. Before the court was Lee McDonnell (27), 14 Colepark Green, Ballyfermot, Dublin 10. Sgt Jason McDonnell gave evidence the accused was searched by prison staff after hereturnedfromtheexercise yard and was found to have a phone, tablets worth €50 and cannabisherb. The accused had 115 previousconvictionsandwas serving a sentence for burglary, with a release date in2021. Defence for the accused said he was under duress and told to hold the items in PortlaoisePrison.

Judge Staines imposed six months in prison, to run concurrentwiththesentence heisalreadyserving. SUPPLY INTO JAIL 'DURESS' CHARGE Arriving Sunday 18th of November at 1pm see www.laoissc.com for details WWW.LAOISSC.COM

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie 12 NEWS Low uptake of flu jab among hospital staff Flu: Staff says they fear side-effects including the flu Just a third of staff at hospitals in Tullamore and Portlaoise opted to take the flu vaccine last year, but staff say they are opting against vaccination because side-effects includingcontractingtheflu. Official figures from the Midland Regional Hospitals in Portlaoise and Tullamorerevealedthat405or33%of staff were given the jab in the Offaly hospital while 282 or 33.8% of staff werevaccinatedintheLaoishospital. The two hospitals are part of the HSE's Dublin Midland Hospital Group. Both midland hospitals had the lowest uptake rates in 2017 and was10percentbelowaverage. Other hospitals in the group include Tallaght, St James, Naas General,theCoombeandStLukes. In total, 5,330 members of staff received the flu vaccine across the grouplastyear.

The average uptake rate across all hospitals within the HSE was 43.3%. The group has a whole time staff equivalent of 10,351. Tallaght hospital had the highest rate at nearly 53% followedbytheCoombeat52%. The Dublin Midlands Hospital Group conducted a survey with staff inNaasGeneralHospital,theMidland Regional Hospital Tullamore and the Midland Regional Hospital Portlaoise, and focus groups in Tallaght University Hospital, following the 2017/2018 flu season. Just 344 staff who took part in the survey on thefluvaccine.

The survey found that 44% of staff got last year’s flu vaccine. The DMHG said the data provides evidence that further awareness and education about the dangers of flu, and the need togetthevaccine,isrequired. “The main reasons staff reported getting the vaccine related to concern for own health, ease of access to vaccine, concern for patient and concernforfamily. “The main reasons cited for not getting the vaccine included: concern aboutthesideeffectsofthe vaccine, they stated that they never get the flu, they were concerned about the effectiveness of the flu vaccine and staff reported that they got the flu after they previously got the vaccine,”itsaid. The HSE has begun a new awareness campaign to encourage staff to get vaccinated.

In a statement on the taking of leave, the Dublin Midland Hospital Group (DMHG), which has a whole time equivalent staff equivalent of 10,351, also confirmed that its winter plan submission to cope with the increase in demands has yet to be approved. The DMHG includes St James and Tallaght hospitals in Dublin as well as Naas General, and the Midland Regional Hospitals in TullamoreandPortlaoise. The Coombe Women and Infants University Hospital and St Luke's Radiation Oncology Network also fall undertheDMHGumbrella. “Hospitals have and continuetofocusonensuring continuity of service delivery to our patients at all times,” saidastatement.

“The decision to grant or refuse leave requests is only taken when service needs have been fully accommodated. Where possiblestaffleaveisplanned and availed of in a manner thatminimisestheimpacton clinical services,” said a statement. The group confirmed that aletterregardingChristmas/ New Year leave was sent to hospitalsinSeptemberandit was decided by the Group Executive Management Team. “As part of winter planning process 2018/2019, theDublinMidlandsHospital Group requested hospitals to review their leave arrangements over the Christmas/New Year period regarding the availability of staff during this time based on known operational pressures and ensure appropriate resources are in place. These consider- ations are underway at a local level.

“The Dublin Midlands Hospital Group winter plan submission is currently being reviewed and we await theoutcomeofthisdecision,” concludedthestatement. A spokesperson confirmedthatleaverequests must be approved locally by linemanagers. Taoiseach Leo Varadkar (pictured) caused controversy this week over his comments on health service staff taking leave at Christmas. Mr Varadkar warned hospital consultant doctors andnursesabouttakingleave in the first fortnight of the newyear. “What has been happening in our health service for 10 or 15 years is that hospitals effectively closed down for seven days out of 12. We need to change that,”saidtheTaoiseach. CONOR GANLY conor.ganly@leinsterexpress.ie CONOR GANLY x@leinsterexpress.ie CONOR GANLY conor.ganly@leinsterexpress.ie NEWS ON THE MOVE: The Leinster Express website is the No 1 digital source of local news and sport. Visit www.leinsterexpress.ie

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The main road from Mountmellick to Tullamore at Clonaghadoo was closed by Laois County Council from 8.00am to 6.00pm on Thursday, November 8. The road closure was put in place to accomodate emergency drainage works according to the local authority. Diversions were put in place via Kilcavan and Rosenallis. Signposts were put in place and local access was maintained. Roundabout to replace turn on busy N80 Mountmellick road safety: Roundabout and pedestrian crossings after residents petition Long delays on a busy stretch of the N80 in a Mountmellick are set to continue for at least another month.

Temporary traffic lights are in place on the N80 coming into Mountmellick from the main Portlaoise road outside Anngrove Stud. Traffic lights are also in place on the Irishtown road that meets the N80 towards St Joseph's Terrace, locallyknownasFox'sCorner. The ongoing work has caused long delays for drivers in recent days as the N80 is down to one lane and the road carries a huge amount oftraffic. The roadworks are in place for the construction of a brand new roundaboutonthejunction. The new roundabout and three pedestrian crossings will replace a T junction, and was first requested by residents who are concerned at thespeedofpassingN80traffic. They submitted a petition about their concerns to Laois County Council last year, after a crash that smashed two parked cars on the road.

AroadsengineeratLaoisCounty Council has said: "This is a safety scheme to facilitate vehicle flows andsafepedestrianmovements." Thecouncilsaidtheroundabout is a safety upgrade to improve pedestrian, cyclist and vehicular safety, and make turning movements at the junction of the N80 and L-6131-0 easier, particularly for traffic turning towards the St Joseph’s Terrace road. The upgrade is understood to cost in the region of €100,000, and Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) will cover the cost as the schemeisonanationalroad. There will be three controlled pedestrian crossings at the roundabout.

New build-outs and footpaths will also be provided. Residents beside the junction will have newly designed access including nine parkingspaces. The roundabout is expected to act as a traffic calming measure the councilsay. There was one submission againsttheroundabout,byacouple living close by who said it will cause large trucks to increase emissions near their home if they are in a traffic tailback at a roundabout. They suggest the €100k cost be instead put towards designing a bypassofMountmellick. Another 17 residents at the locationwelcomedtheroundabout, and at their request, a third pedestrian crossing is to be built at the tennis courts. Works are expected to be completed by December 10, depending on weatherconditionsmeaningdelays for drivers will be ongoing for anotherfourweeksatleast. One lane and traffic lights on the N80 at Irishtown, Mountmellick are causing long delays for motorists due to the high volumes of traffic that pass through the town. Roadworks will be in place until at least December 10 14 NEWS ROADWORKS UNDERWAY AROUND THE COUNTY MICHELLE HOGAN michelle.hogan@leinsterexpress.ie EXPRESS REPORTER news@leinsterexpress.ie INTEREST FREE FINANCE AVAILABLE* *Terms & Conditions Apply QUALITY FURNITURE - AFFORDABLE PRICES Telephone 0578630296 Opening Hours Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm Sun: 2-6pm Cloud 9 Zone 3, Clonminam Business Park, Portlaoise, Co. Laois, Eircode: R32PP30 WWW.FURNITUREPROPERLY.COM | WWW.FACEBOOK.COM/FURNITUREPROPERLY FURNITURE , LIGHTING, ACCESSORIES AND GIFTS Large selection of MATTRESSES available INSTORE FERNDALE Collection

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Home from school as no seats left on bus A Laois mother has had to keep her children home from school for two weeks as they missed out on bus ticketsthisyear. Brenda Duffy told the Leinster Express that she was late with the payment to sign her children up for the Bus Eireann school bus service but they had used the service for a numberofyearspreviously. They live in Walsh Island and need the bus to get to school in ColaisteIosagain,Portarlington. Withnoticketforthebusandone familycarwhichherhusbandusesto workdayandnightshifts,thereisno other transport method for the childrenwhenthecarisinuse. BrendasaidhersoninJuniorCert yearisreallymissingoutonschool. “Theyhavebeenonthebusforthe last few years. Because we were a little late paying at the start of the term they lost their seats, they took the money and then gave it back but thatisnogoodtome,”shesaid. Brenda has asked Bus Eireann to run a bus with more seats as the demand is there with two of her neighbour’s children who also missed out on tickets but she says they‘willnotbudge’. Bus Eireann told the Leinster Expressthatallchildrenwhoapplied ontimehavereceivedabusticket. “All eligible children who applied on-time for a bus ticket on the route into Colaiste Iosagain in Portarlington have been issued a ticket,”aspokespersonsaid. A spokesperson for the DepartmentofEducationsaid: “Children who are eligible for school transport and who have completed the application process ontimehavebeenaccommodatedon school transport services for the current school year where such services are in operation. A number ofchildrenfromtheareareferredto, who were considered eligible for school transport, were late in submitting their payment details and services are now operating to capacity,”aspokespersonsaid. Neither the Department nor Bus Eireannofferedfurthercommenton a solution for the demand for this service or the children missing schoolasaresult.

Adam, Killian and Megan Duffy have done school work at the kitchen table at home in Walsh Island for two weeks as they do not have a ticket for the Bus Eireann school bus Salt devoured gritting Laois winter roads Storm Emma, the Beast from the East and other freezing snowy weather led to Laois County Council using thousands of tonnes of extra saltforroadslastwinter. Laois County Council figures reveal that the amount needed in 2017/18 was double the amount used during to the previous winter. It was some seven times the total tonnage the council starts the gritting season with.

Kieran Kehoe, Laois County Council Director of Services, outlined thefigures. “The winter maintenance season runs from mid-October up until the end of April and in the 2017/2018 season, Laois County Council carried out over 100 treatments compared with less than half this number overthepreviouswinter. “In the 2017/2018 season, Laois County Council used 4,380 tonnes of salt compared with circa 2,000 tonnes the previous winter season,”hesaid. Mr Kehoe said a full salt stock is available for use on roads ahead of the 2018/2019 winter maintenance season, with 600 tonnes of dry salt suppliescurrentlyinstock. Hesaidthat,asinprevious years, this would be used for the treatment of priority 1 and 2 routes in accordance with the 2018/2019 Winter MaintenancePlan.

Mr Kehoe said salt storage quantitiesaremonitoredona weekly basis and stocks can normally be replenished in lessthan48hours. The council revealed the demands on its resources after the Minister for Transport, Tourism and Sport Shane Ross announced that he has secured additional funding for salt stocks as part of his Dept’s preparation for winter 2018-19. Minister Ross was speaking the launch of the Partnership Governments 2018-19 be “Winter Ready” campaign at the National Emergency Coordination Centre in Dublin.

“Last year’s salt reserves were seriously depleted by Storm Emma. Therefore this year I have secured an additional €700,000 in funding for salt supplies in preparation for severe weatherevents,”hesaid. He also warned that speeding, particularly in wintry conditions, can be treacherous. NEWS 15 MICHELLE HOGAN michelle.hogan@leinsterexpress.ie CONOR GANLY conor.ganly@leinsterexpress.ie WWW.LEINSTEREXPRESS.IE FOR ALL YOUR LOCAL NEWS, AS IT HAPPENS

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Left - possible canopy style on the cards for Lyster Square Above - public lighting being considered for Lyster Lane Council publishes plans to ‘transform’ Portlaoise centre Council: Laois County Council first stage of transforming Portlaoise Laois County Council says its proposals to ovehaul Portlaoise's lanes and the area around Lyster SquarecantransformPortlaoise. In a statement on the publication of proposals for the town centre, council Dirctor of Service Kieran Kehoe explained that the council is pushingaheadwithvisionaryplans. “This proposal is part of our recent application for funding under the Urban Regeneration and DevelopmentFund.

“This is the next step in bringing the vision and ideas of the people of Portlaoise town as developed through the consultation process in Portlaoise 2040 to fruition and to ensure the documentisn’tjustaplan left on a shelf but instead a blueprint for transforming Portlaoise into the placetoliveweallwant,”hesaid. Mr Kehoe said the proposals have come about as a result of consultation. “As part of the stakeholder consultation undertaken for Portlaoise2040,anumberofspecific interventions were identified that related to improvements to the public realm and pedestrian experience through the Portlaoise town centre and in particular at Lyster Square and the related three laneways of Bull Lane, Lysters Lane and Peppers Lane connecting to MainStreetandLowerSquare. “The proposed improvements that emerged from the consultation included improved pedestrian priority, a canopy covered area at LysterSquareaswellasstrengthened pedestrian and cycling provision, provision of high quality lighting and permeability to re-connect the ‘Old’ and‘New’towncentres.

“The proposed improvements to the public realm and in particular in the laneways and around Lyster Square and James Fintan Lalor Avenue will aim to encourage the enhancement of the adjacent buildings. Significant opportunities will be expected to emerge for the enhancement of some properties and potential redevelopment of the adjacent vacant or underutilized properties following the enhancementofthepublicrealm,”he said. Mr Kehoe said the provision of a canopycoveredareaatLysterSquare for market and events is proposed to be included within the public realm improvementspackageforthearea. He said one of the key proposals within this scheme is to deliver a strong pedestrian connection throughoutthewidertown. “Thesizeandgeneralaccessibility of the town centre makes it pedestrian friendly. Pedestrian linkages between the historic core around Main Street and the modern shopping areas south of James Fintan Lalor Avenue through Lyster Square and across James Fintan LalorAvenueneedimprovement. “Vehicular access and parking for shopping, businesses and visitors must be balanced with traffic dominance and congestion, and the need for attractive and safe pedestrian environments. In particular, James Fintan Lalor Avenue, the roundabout adjacent to Lyster Square and Lyster Square itself were identified as areas of particularconcernfromstakeholder consultation for Portlaoise 2040,” he said.

He said Portlaoise enjoys the advantage of access to fast, efficient bus services for employees, employers and customers moving to and from the centre of Dublin, of CorkorofLimerick. He said local bus services provide links to towns and villages in the County from James Fintan Lalor Avenue. The provision of improved bus stop and waiting facilities at JFL Avenue is a key intervention taken fromthePortlaoise2040document. Portalaoise lanes and Lyster Square overhaul planned AnoverhaulofPortlaoisetown centrewithafocusonthetown's lanesandLysterSquareisthefocus ofnewplanspublishedthisweek byLaoisCountyCouncil. Undertheplanspavements, lighting,landscapingwillbe installedonanumberofthetowns lanesthathavebecomerundown. Theaimoftheprojectisthatby upgradingthelanes,theolderand newerpartsofthetownwill becomemoreintegrated. Theprojectwillalsoseework carriedoutonLysterLane, PeppersLaneandBullLane. Lightingwillbeembeddedinto thewalkwaysthatwillbe resurfaced.Canopylighting possibleforsomeofthelanesin particularLysterLane,the shortestbutbusiestofthelanes. Newsignsareearmarkedforth entranceandentrytothelanesina stlyewhichtakesitsinfluencefrom theformerPortlaoiseironworks foundary.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Remembering the fallen of the Great War at Portlaoise on Sunday PICTURE: DENIS BYRNE Right: Jake, Philip and Kyle Heafey at the World War I memorial in Portlaoise PICTURE: DENIS BYRNE Left: Cllr James Kelly, MC at the Mountrath Historical Society Great War plaque unveiling PICTURE: ALF HARVEY Glanbia cheese factory appealed An appeal has been lodged with An Bord Pleanala against a council decision to grant permission for a new Glanbia Cheese EU Limited factorynearPortlaoise. Laois County Council granted permission at the end of September to Glanbia to develop a cheese manufacturing facility within the Togher National Enterprise Park, at Togher, Portlaoise.

The development will comprise a main building which will facilitate a cheese blending process, an office block for administrative and technical support staff and external buildings to service theproposedfacility. Also included is a car park for staff and visitors with 94 spaces and a trailer parking areaofsixspaces. However, during the planning process, two submissions were made to the council objecting to the plans. One of these was made by Mr D. Phelan, Ardilaun, Abbeyleix Road, Portlaoise, whosaidhewishedtobekept informed of any decision madebythecouncil. In the wake of the council’s grant of permission to Glanbia, Mr Phelan has nowlodgedanappealwithAn Bord Pleanala against the plans.

The other submission made to the council during the initial planning stages was by Ms Claire O’Donoghue-Bracken, Old Knockmay Cottage, Old Knockmay, Togher, who said: “I believe that the proposed development does not respect local context and rural pattern and in particular, the scale and proportions of surrounding buildings, and would be entirely out of the character of the area, to the detriment ofthelocalenvironment.” Plans for new cheese factory have met opposition 18 NEWS World War I centenary at 11th hour in Portlaoise Memorial: Portlaoise World War I Armistice Day event CorporalJohnConroywaskilledonThe SommeinAugust1916.Hewas21. Last Sunday, November 11, young Steven Conroy recited a poem during the annual Armistice Day commemoration ceremony at the War MemorialinPortlaoise.

Thus was bridged a 102 years’ gap. Steven, from Summergrove, Mountmellick, is a great, great grandnephew of John. His home was at ManorLane,Mountmellick. It was on the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918 that the guns fell silent on the Western Front, ending four years of slaughter. On the eleventh hour, on the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 2018 a congregation packed into St Peter’s Church in Market Square, Portlaoise, for a service to mark the centenary of the end of the First World War.

In St Peter’s Church are volumes containing the names of all Irishmen killed in that terrible conflict. They includemanyfromLaois. Rector Canon Peter Tarleton conducted the service. In attendance was County Council Chairman John King. Piper Stefan O’Reilly, from Dublin, and bugler Michael McLoughlin, from Tubber, Co Offaly, addedpoignancytotheoccasion. Joy was mixed with sadness at the service - because, earlier, all had rejoiced at the baptism of Alexander KevinPeavoy,fromBallycarnan. At the War Memorial, Noel Ryan did his customary job of selling poppies. The Memorial, unveiled by Lord Castletownin1928,honoursthedeadof theLeinsterRegiment’s4thBattalion. As the First World War generation fadedaway,thestructurefellintodecay. Then, in 1990, after a lapse of many years, the Armistice Day ceremony was revived in Portlaoise. In 2001, the Monument was relocated from Tower Hill (Bank Place) to a special site at Millview,anditwasrefurbished. Michael Thompson, of Post 27 (United Nations veterans), welcomed everybody to the ceremony at the War Memorial which was blessed by Canon Tarleton.

AfterJoeMcEvoy,alsoofPost27,had laid a wreath, the large and representative attendance observed a minute’s silence for the thousands who neverreturnedhomefromtheWestern Front and other killing zones of The Great War. Michael McLoughlin sounded the Last Post and Reveille. Stefan O’Reilly played the national anthem. Council Cathaoirleach Cllr John King told the gathering he was proud to stand at the Memorial a century after the guns had ceased firing on the Western Front. He noted how veterans, manyfromLaois,hadreturnedtoavery different place after the war. He welcomed the fact that we were now rememberingthem.

Tony Flanagan, Post 27, recalled the work of the late Kathleen O’Brien, who died in 2017, for the annual Armistice Daycommemorations. “We are honouring the young men and women who died in the First World War. Without those people who gave their lives, we might not be here today,” hesaid. Mr Flanagan and Canon Tarleton organized the ceremony. Present was Post 27 Chairman Fred O’Reilly. His uncle, Tom Briody, a member of the Royal Irish Fusiliers, was killed on the WesternFrontinOctober1915.

Parade Marshal on Sunday was Jim Shiels.Inchargeofthecolourpartywas DonieMolloy. See page 30 and 31 for more ArmisticeDayeventsinLaois. Michael McLoughlin plays the last post at the World War I Armistice Day Centenary event in Portlaoise PICTURE: DENIS BYRNE RYAN DUNNE ryan@leinsterexpress.ie SEAMUS DUNNE news@leinsterexpress.ie Members of the UN Post 27 form a guard of honour at the World War I memorial in Portlaoise PICTURE: DENIS BYRNE Laois County Council Cathaoirleach Cllr John King speaks in Portlaoise PICTURE DENIS BYRNE

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Grabbling with all historical legacies T he commemorations of the 100th anniversary of Armistice Day is the latest in a series of such events in what has been labelled a decade of commemorations. The1916commemorationstwo yearsagowerethefirstfromthat turbulentera,andtheyweredone inatastefulandverysuccessful manner. Thiswasdueinnosmallpartto goodorganisationand participationfromeveryone,from nationalgovernmenttolocal communities. Successfulastheywerethough, the1916celebrationswereinall likelihoodtheeasyones. Asthisdecadegrindstoaclose in13monthstime,wearefacinga muchtrickierreckoningwith historyasthe100thanniversaryof thecivilwarlooms.

ALISON PEARSON CHAMBERS: A very good idea, because a lot of people have food allergies/ intolerances or even cultural food preferances that aren't what happened to be donated by well- meaning people. This will be more efficient. Mountmellick roadworks to last another month as roundabout is built TRACY LEE COUSINS: No need for a roundabout there. The money should have gone in to move the pedestrian crossing at the corner from the main road to the school. The lights are too close to the end it's so dangerous for the kids going to school.

Knowles family wins almost €60,000 on Winning Streak TV show MARTINA MURPHY: Just Fantastic I watched The Town and felt so sorry for the family WELL DESERVED TERESA SAGE: Delighted for this family god bless them and Mary Clare. SHARON MCEVOY: Brilliant absolutely delighted for them. MARINA HEWITT: I jumped around with delight! ELAINE DELANEY: Brilliant it’s great to see someone who needs it, hope it brings lots of love and happiness to all the family x Laois man jailed for rape and sexual assault of young girl SHARON HYLAND: Well done to her lock him up and throw away the key this time.

ASHLEY FANTON: That's an insult of a sentence should be life. Sick animal and its not his first victim dirty paedophile. ELAINE CONCANNON: Brave lady. He is Disgusting. Hope he never has a minutes peace for the rest of his life. EVAN Ó BROIN: That sentence isn't good enough, should be mandatory 25 year and that's been very lenient IMO , child's mind destroyed by the vermin. LEANNA MCEVOY: 9 years!! That poor woman has to live with what happened to her for the rest of her life and he gets 9 years?? The justice system in this country is a JOKE. Silent Santa in Portlaoise for children with additional needs CLAIRE KELLY: Well done Elaine Mc Ginn and Stephen and everyone involved xx MARINA DOWLING: Fabulous work Elaine Mc Ginn and Stephen.

€4million refurbishment to Portlaoise prison officers training college AINE HENNESSY: All this money pumped into a college and staff can't even get vital individual stab proof vests..complete joke. MARIE HOGAN BUTLER: Why are they treated like they haven’t caused damage and life altering mental damage to people and property to law abiding people... this article is crap... ahh had a hard life etc people living on on streets are not treated as well as prisoners that are in prison for crimes. VIEWS 20 HAVEYOURSAY If you’ve got a view on a local topic, we’d like to hear from you. Email news@leinsterexpress.ie or write to: Letters, Leinster Express, 107 Lower Main Street, Portlaoise. Please include your address and contact details. Letters may be edited for length. Send letters/ emails to the address below @laoisnews

▲ GOOD WEEK Portlaoise senior footballers They had to wait a year, but Portlaoise finally exorcised their one point defeat to Moorefield last year when they overcame the Leinster champions in Newbridge on Sunday. ▼ BAD WEEK Local water supply Irish Water appealing to customers on the Portlaoise Water Supply Scheme to conserve water, advising that water restrictions may be necessary in the coming weeks. “Your work is challenging and important. In many respects it goes unseen by the wider community, but that does not mean it is unrecognised. You enhance public safety by both holding prisoners securely and by providing care and rehabilitation.” Minister Charlie Flanagan on Prison Officers {Q THE QUOTE OF THE WEEK A case of plus ca change when it comes to Portlaoise hospital I f there's such a thing as a constant news story, then Portlaoise hospital must surely be it. A scan of the online archives of the Leinster Express for this week 40 years ago saw the hospital making one of the lead stories (see below).

Thesaying'themorethings changethemoretheystaythe same'issomewhatapthere,foras evidencedbythearchivesthisisa storywhichhasbeenreplicated manytimesinthispaper throughouttheyears,and particularlyinlattertimes. InNovember1978,theExpress reportedonarequestedmeeting withtheMinisterforHealthby theLocalHealthCommitteeto discuss“futuredevelopmentsat PortlaoiseCountyHospital.” Accordingtothereportthe requestarosefroma“stormy meeting”ofthecommitteeonthe nightofFriday,November10. At that meeting a delegation representing the people of Laois handed ina letter of protest which was read to the meeting by Philip Meagher, a member of the delegation.

The contents of the letter were asfollows: “We the undersigned are concerned at recent reports in the local press which strongly suggest that the county hospital in Portlaoiseisnowingravedangerof being downgraded, despite the settled policy for its future operationthatwasmadetwoyears ago. “Such a policy of downgrading seems absolutely unwarranted in view of the social trends of Portlaoise and its surrounds in particular.” These social trends are listed as: -Increasedbirthrate -Industrialexpansionand -Generalpolicyofdevelopment inthearea.

“No apparent plan appears to exist for the extension of the hospital or the provision of the extrabedsfacility.” That'sthethrustofthatletterof protestof40yearsago. Fast forward to 2018 and how littlehaschanged. We are again awaiting a Ministerial decision on the fate of Portlaoise hospital, a decision whichseemstobestubbornlyslow aboutmaterialising. Essentially, at its core the same fight is taking place concerning the retention of services at the hospital. The same arguments broadly apply. In 1978 the location and development of Portlaoise was emphasised.

In latter campaigns, it has been acentralpoint. TheLaoisandPortlaoiseof2018 is a vastly different place to that of 1978yet,aswecanseeinthisstory, there is a constistency to this particularissue. If there is one common thread straddling these eras, it is most definetly Portlaoise hospital and concern and fear as to its ultimate fate. Whichbegsthequestion,why? Four decades is a long time by any measure, yet when it comes to the issue of Portlaoise hospital it seems that a lot of running has beendonejusttostandstill. The people and personalities change over time, but the campaignremainsthesame. Now, a year from the massive march in Portlaoise, and 40 years on from that newspaper report from 1978, we find ourselves in the sameoldfamiliarplace.

The back drop now is the plan drawn up by the HSE's Dublin Midlands Hospital Group for the Minister for Health which proposedtheremovalofA&E,ICU, maternity, paediatrics and most surgeryfromthehospital. To date there has been no consultation about the hospital's future, no meetings with the HSE, and no appointment by the Minister Simon Harris of a promised consultation facilitator almost a year on from his promise todoso. Thisstateoflimbopersistswith no indication yet from the MinisterorDepartmentastowhat will happen or how the process is gettingalong.

Throughout all this though, the hospitalcontinuestofunctionasit has done through years of uncertainty. That is no mean feat and is a credit to all who have worked in it andcontinuetodoso. A Portlaoise hospital meeting in St. Mary's hall two years ago. The people involved change over the decades but the issue has remained a constant feature of Laois public life for more than forty years MOST READ STORIES ON OUR WEBSITE IN THE LAST 7 DAYS FRONTPAGESOFTHEPAST Years ago DATE The fifth Fianna Fail youth conference in the Killeshin Hotel was the lead story 40 years ago.

Of the 18 motions, 13 were put forward by Cumann in Laois, including one on the future of Portlaoise hospital. And the hospital found itself centre stage in another front page story in which a local health committee requested to meet the Health Minister to discuss the future of of it. Meanwhile Tretorn in Portlaoise were forced to put their staff on a two day week as a result of the five week old strike at Irish Shell depots, because of a run down in their fuel oil. TOPFIVEONLINE 1. VOTE NOW - Downey's Auto Stop/Leinster Express Sports Star of the Month for October 2. Laois man jailed for rape and sexual assault of young girl 3. Daughter of man convicted of her rape admitted to him she told 'lies' at his trial during Midlands Prison visit 4. WATCH: Laois father spins the big wheel on RTE's Winning Streak 5. Drama teacher convicted for raping girl withdraws his appeal after court warning September Sports Star Mary Keating VIEWS 21 PAT SOMERS

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie BUSINESS BRIEFS GlanbiaConnect website award GlanbiaConnect.com, Ireland’s biggest online farming store claimed the coveted “Website of the Year 2019” title at the Retail Excellence Awards. The 21st Annual Retail Excellence Awards which are backed by AIB Merchant services were held on Saturday 10th November at the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney. Over 500 retailers attended the event which recognises Irish retailers who are leading the way in their sectors.

GlanbiaConnect demonstrated its best in class ecommerce credentials setting itself apart from more than 70 retailers that entered the category. The judging consisted of a rigorous audit of the site focusing on customer usability and technical development. Commenting on the win, Glanbia Marketing Manager for Retail and Ecommerce James Byrne said, “We’re delighted to bring home the prize for best website.” Pictured after receiving their awards at the recent Londis Retailing Awards ceremony held in the Sheraton Hotel, Athlone in Co Westmeath were Sean Lavin, Head of Londis Sales and Edel Watchorne, Londis Mountmellick Malting barley excellence awards EXPRESS REPORTER news@leinsterexpress.ie Two Laois barley growers have been recognised at the annual Malting Barley ExcellenceAwards. Wexford farmer Padraig Kehoe took the top prize for his malting barley crop at the awards.

The awards are organised by Boortmalt, one of the largest producers of malt in the world and hosted by Diageo, the largest purchaser ofmaltingbarleyinIreland. Guest of honour and key speaker Deputy Pat Deering, Chair of the Joint Oireachtas Committee for Agriculture, presented the Guinness Perpetual Cup for Malting Barley Excellence to Padraig Kehoe. Amongthewinnersacross the supply regions were two Laoisfarmersasfollows: Stradbally Laois: Richard and Raymond Carter, Timogue, Stradbally, and Rory Doyle. The Rock, Mountmellick as well as Kevin Hovende, Ballylinan, Athy.

This year 65 Londis retailers received Londis Retailing Awards Edel Watchorne of Watchorne’s Londis, Mountmellick, who received a Retailing ExcellenceAward. Congratulatingretailersat the awards ceremony, Conor Hayes, Londis Sales Director said: “Londis retailers are at the heart of their communities around the country. “It’sgreattoseethewealth of outstanding expertise demonstrated by Londis retailersandinparticularthe very worthy winners of the 2018Awards. “In the past year, the standards across the Londis retail estate have soared. The winners of this year’s awards areamongthetopretailersin thecountry.

“This award is recognition of the commitment and ambition demonstrated by these retailers to keep providing the highest level of service to their customers. Their focus on continually exceeding customer expectationsisatestamentto the hard work of their staff, forwhichthey shouldbevery proud. “I commend them all on this wonderful achievement.” Award recipients are selected after demonstrating outstanding industry excellence following a year of specialised audits conducted byretailspecialists,SMA. The stores were independently examined across a range of criteria including customer service, the quality of their fresh food offering, product range, and the stores’ commitment to upholding the highest standards of hygiene and foodsafety.

This exemplary Londis retailer received their award in recognition of their commitment to implementing exceptionally high standards throughout theirstore,therebyproviding an excellent customer experience to their local community. On receiving the award EdelWatchornesaid:“Weare thrilled to receive this prestigious award which is testament to the extremely hard working team that we haveinstore. “Thisaccoladeisnotonlya mark of pride for our store and staff, but importantly it shows our customers that we are passionate about delivering a top quality service.

“This is a very important point of differentiation in what is a very competitive marketplace and we’re honoured to have received thisaward.” LaoisBusiness www.leinsterexpress.ie

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Retail award for Nook and Cranny Retail Excellence, the largest Retail representative body in Ireland, has announced the winner of their annual Awards held in the Great Southern Hotel, Killarney on Saturday,10thNovember. The Awards, which are backed by AIB Merchant Services, were presented by energetic TV personality Hector Ó hEochagáin and attended by more than 500 Irish retail industry executives. Nook and Cranny on Main Street in Portlaoise was crowned as National Gift StoreoftheYear2019. Matthew Brown of Echochamber in the UK, who visited and judged the Top30 finalists said that Nook and Cranny is a “really charming gift shop with a simply superb curation of interesting produc, the merchandising is creative and appealing to the customer.” Top5 Store Winners included Willow in Ennis, who took the National Store of the Year 2019, Mellerick’s Pharmacy, Fermoy, bambino’s children’s store, Ennis, Shannon Airport Duty Free, Shannon, and Fresh The Good Food Market, GrandCanalSquare,Dublin. Other sectoral award winners included The Kilkenny Shop on Nassau Street which won Restaurant and Coffee House of the Year, Specsavers on Dawson Street who picked up the title of Optician of the Year, Arboretum in Carlow won Garden Centre of the Year, Harvey Norman, Tallaght won National Electronic & Tech store, Dollard & Co., Dublin won National Food & Wine Store of the Year, Applegreen, Gorey won National Forecourt Store of the Year, Casey’s Furniture in LimerickwonNationalHome & Interiors store, and Petstop, Carrickmines, Dublin won Pet Store of the Year.

The night also celebrated thebestineCommerce. Glanbia won Website of the Year, Hale Vaping winning New Website of the Year, and mobile operator Three winning Digital Campaign of the Year and Carrolls Irish Gifts winning ExporteroftheYear. Talent within the retail industry was also celebrated with Mary Keane, Manager of TheKilkennyShoponNassau Street, Dublin winning Manager of the Year and Niamh Cleary of Inglot Waterford winning Rising StaroftheYear. Fianna Fáil TD Dara Calleary, has been named Retail Advocate of the Year 2019 for his work supporting the industry as chair of the OireachtasCrossPartyGroup onRetail.

Slane in County Meath was heralded as Ireland’s Friendliest Place 2019 and DPD were announced as the Supplier of the Year 2019 to theIrishRetailIndustry. Group CEO of Retail Excellence David Fitzsimons said, “We are delighted to recognize and award the very bestinIrishretailallofwhom have shown an unquestionable commitment to meeting and exceeding customer expectations as well as innovation in store and in-servicedelivery. “We are particularly pleased that across all of our categories of awards Irish retailers, both big and small, urban and rural competed to deliver that exceptional standard of service to customersregardlessoftheir size.’ “We look forward to working with the finalists, entrants and members into the future to assist in their endeavours and continue driving standards in Irish retail.” “Congratulations to all the winners. These retailers represent the best in retail industry in Ireland. AIB Merchant Services are proud to partner with Retail Excellence Ireland on such a prestigiousevent.” Established by Retail Excellence in 1997, The Awards is the biggest event in the Irish retail industry calendar and aims to promote best practice and encourage high standards in theIrishretailindustry. Ladonna McCartan and Mark Healy of the Nook and Cranny receive the Award Have you got a view on what you’ve read here? Share your opinion with Express readers by writing to the editor.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie The Ghostbusters Foroige Club, Knockmay, Portlaoise with leaders Jo and Tommy Hannon and Betty Farrell at the annual 'Focus on Foroige Day' in June 1991 PICTURE: ALF HARVEY Wilie and Sheila Monaghan, Michael and Noeleen McGrath at the official opening of the East End Hotel, Portarlington Ann-Marie Gorman and Josephine Hosey at the Ballypickas GAA dinner dance in Durrow Presentation to Fred Stuart and Ann Thompson by Mountmellick Boys Brigade Aine Dunne and Ann Kelly from Clonaslee in June 1991 PICTURE: ALF HARVEY Competitors from Stradbally and The Heath PICTURE: ALF HARVEY Presentation to Rev D O'Hanlon on his Golden Jubilee celebration in Camross Hall. Pictured are Patsy Ryan, Canon J O'Rourke, Derek Alcorn, Michael Scully, Marie Carroll and Paddy Dooley TIMESPAST A look back at times past through the photographic archives of the Leinster Express ARCHIVE SPECIAL 24

Please email your pictures or news to news@ leinsterexpress.ie or give us a call on 057 86 21666. You can also drop into our office at 107 Lower Main Street, Portlaoise Voluntary community work to be honoured Hardworking and dedicated volunteers with community groups, clubs and local organisations around Laois gather next week in Portlaoise for the annual Community & Voluntary Awards. Laois County Council, in association with Laois Public Participation Network (LPPN) will host the 9th Annual awards in the Midlands Park Hotel on Tuesday, November20.

The Leinster Express is supporting this year's awards as mediapartner. The awards recognise the valuable contribution made by volunteers at both group and individual level in promoting community and voluntary, social inclusion and environmental sectors in their communities. A total of 38 groups have been nominated across five group categories including Environment, Children and Youth, Arts, Culture and Heritage, Healthy and Active CommunityandSocialInclusion. The final category of Unsung Hero will celebrate and honour the great work of individuals across Laois.

These awards have been judged by LPPN Representatives from around Ireland and the eagerly awaited results will be announced onthenight. The Cathaoirleach of Laois County Council John King commented on the extraordinary work that is quietly taking place in Laois. “The commitment and dedication of these groups and individuals sets a true example to usall,”saidCllrKing. Pat Somers, Leinster Express Edtor,washonouredtosupportthe awards. “The Leinster Express is delighted to acknowledge the work of local volunteers and communities,”hestated. The Master of Ceremonies on the night will be RTE’s Justin Treacy,anativeofEmo.

Follow the event live on Twitter using#laoisawards2018. Laois County Council account will be tweeting the winners live from @LaoisCouncil. There will also be updates on the Council and PPN facebook pages. The Leinster Expres will carry extensive coverage next week, online and in Laois Annual 2018 which will be in the shops this month and onsale throughChristmas. Laois PPN Secretariat members at the Community & Voluntary Awards, pictured with Cllrs. Padraig Fleming (Cathaoirleach) and Minister Charlie Flanagan TD PICTURE: MICHAEL SCULLY CONOR GANLY conor.ganly@leinsterexpress.ie 2017 Unsung Hero Nominees at in the Community & Voluntary Awards - in The Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise PICTURE: MICHAEL SCULLY Express LEINSTER www.leinsterexpress.ie Honours: Laois Community and Voluntary Awards 2018

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie PORTLAOISE NEWS AROUND THE TOWN HAVE YOU GOT A STORY FOR US? CONTACT OUR NEWS TEAM NOW e: news@leinsterexpress.ie t: 057 86 21666 KNOCK PILGRIMAGE Night Vigil Pilgrimage to Knock on December 7. Bus leaves 7 pm. Seats must be booked to Maura 0578661601 or 0863344722. MUSICAL SOCIETY Portlaoise Musical Society and the Dunamaise Arts Centre launched of their 20th Anniversary production Titantic - The Musical last week. The musical runs from November 24 to December 2. Tickets from the Dunamaise. A table quiz will take place on Friday, November 9 in O'Loughlin's Hotel from 8.30pm. This is one of the major fundraisers of the year, all welcome to come along and support it. WEATHER TALK The recently retired head of Met Éireann, Gerald Fleming, is sure to be one of the highlights of the upcoming Midlands Science Festival. Apart from his accurate forecasting Mr Fleming was popular for his friendly wink to viewers at the end of one of his many RTÉ weather bulletins. The meteorologist will speak on the science of forecasting and weather on Tuesday, November 13 in the Midlands Park Hotel. All are welcome to the free. www.midlandsscience.ie for more event details. RESILIENT CHILDREN Portlaoise Library in association with Healthy Ireland welcomes Midlands Area Parenting Partnership for a Triple P Parenting Seminar on the topic of ‘Raising Resilient Children’. Triple P gives parents simple and practical strategies to help them build strong, healthy relationships, confidently manage their children’s behavior and prevent problems developing. Takes place Wednesday, 14th November, 6.30pm. Booking advised. ISL LEARNERS AGM Midlands ISL Learners AGM on Wednesday, November 21 7pm in the National Learning Network, on the Dublin Road, Portlaoise. To put forward your name for nomination to be on the board, please contact our secretary, Louise at midlandsisllearners @gmail.com by November 7. FATIMA FUND Pilgrimage to Fatima departs on June 20 next year. Cost €759 with €100 deposit to be paid in full by December 15. Spiritual Director is Fr Paddy Byrne CC accompanied by Fr Tom O'Reilly, PP, Clonaslee. Contact Maura O'Brien 057 8661601 0 or 086 3344722 or any committee member. LIP SYNC Portlaoise College l Lip Sync fundraising for an all-weather Astroturf pitch takes place on Friday, February 8 in the Midlands Park Hotel. Tickets €20 and doors will open at 7pm. The pitch costs about of €170,000. The college hopes to raise €50,000 from the Lip Sync. To fundraise or put an act together for the show contact on 057 8621480 kmcclearn@ portlaoisecollege.ie. HOLY FAMILY Holy Family Junior School enrolments now open for applications. Application forms from school at Aughnaharna, Summerhill, Portlaoise tel 0578688224. www.holyfamilyschools.ie Return forms with birth cert by December 3.

65 KITCHEN CHOIR Let the Good Times Rock n' Roll is name of the 65 Kitchen Choir concert in the Dunamaise Arts Centre on November, 15,16,17. Showtime 8pm and tickets €16 are selling fast. Book through the Dunamaise box office. HELP ST V DE PAUL St Vincent De Paul Portlaoise Christmas Appeal Church Gate Collection November 17-18 & 24-25. Give generously. Each year the conference helps 750 families in the community. This year the confereance is changing the way it helps families by distributiong food vouchers that can be redeemed at local grocery shops rather than distributing hampers. The conference hopes that local people will be make a money donation that can be converted to vouchers. TOWN TALES Old Portlaoise: 40 Pictures; 40 Stories is the name of forthcoming talk by local historian John Dunne and hosted by the Laois Heritage Society in the Midlands Park Hotel at 8 pm on Thursday, November 15. Everyone is welcome. Society members free; non-members only €3 COMMUNITY AWARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel on Tuesday, November 20. It total 22 individuals are shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories.

CHRISTMAS MARKET Portlaoise Christmas Market organised by Downtown Portlaoise takes place on the town's Main St is on Sunday, November 25 from 11 am to 6pm. Santa arrives at 2 pm and takes some of his precious time to stay around for the spectacular Christmas light switch on at 4.30pm. The event is supported by Laois Hire and Laois County Council. COMMUNITY 26 LGBTI+ awareness day of training set for Portlaoise Developing LGBTI+ awareness for people who workwithyoungpeopleisthe aim of an upcoming workshopinPortlaoise. Youth Work Ireland Laois and Youth Work Ireland Midlands say they are delighted to be given the opportunity by the Department of Children and Youth affairs as part of the LGBTI+ Youth Strategy capacity fund to host two workshops in Portlaoise and Tullamore.

They say LGBTI+ awareness training was developed for those who are lookingformoreinformation to support their need when working with young people. The training is designed for teachers, youth workers and othervolunteers. The training focuses on thefollowing: • What are the common issues faced by LGBT+ people? • LGBTIQ+- what do all the different letter and terms mean? • “Heteronormativity” and how does it affect us all, and particularly LGBT+ people? • Why is it important to be LGBT+ inclusive?

• “Dilemma Scenarios”- exploring everyday dilemmas for LGBT+ people and the people they work and learn with … • Tips on being and LGBT+ Ally • What support services exist for LGBT+ people and their families, friends, colleagues, service providers? The Laois session takes place at the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise Thursday, December6. Both sessions start at 10 am and Finish at 4.30pm and lunchisprovided. The event is free of charge butspacesarelimited. To book a place e-mail signup@ywilaois.com At Portlaoise Vocational School 83-88 reunion at The Bog Road were Christine Keyes, Jackie Carter and Catherine Langton PICTURES: DENIS BYRNE John Duff and Dan Hennessy at the reunion Phyll McAleer and Faith Carter at The Bog Road Liam Timmons, Pauline Kealy McKiernan and Sean Foyle St V De Paul replace Christmas hampers The Portlaoise conference of the St Vincent De Paul has announced it is to replace its Christmas hamper system with food vouchers for the 2018ChristmasAppeal. It says there are a number of reasons for moving away fromhamperdistribution. “The collection, storage, compilinganddistributionof the traditional hamper was placing a huge amount of work on our personnel and volunteers. In many instances,itwasverydifficult to match the recipient with the food available. The recipients prefer to receive a voucher that allows them to pick what suits their family bestandthereismoredignity inallowingthemtodothat.” The conference says the vouchers will be redeemable at local grocery shops by familieswhoneedhelp. The St Vincent De Paul Portlaoise Christmas Appeal Church Gate Collection takes place on November 17-18 and 24-25.

Each year the conference makes 750 visits to familes andpeopleinneedandhopes local people support the Church gate collection and Christmas Appeal as they say there remains a huge need in thecommunity.

Concert commemorates the ultimate sacrifice A century after the fighting and carnage ended, Portlaoise Comhaltas members played a lament at Guilemont in France where the 16th Irish Division regiments fought in September 1916 at the Battle oftheSomme. The Irish contribution to the battle is cherished by the local villagers who still speak of their courage and fighting skillinWorldWarI. The French visit was a prelude to the major commemoration at SS Peter & Paul’s Parish Church on November4. “As a non-political, non denominational, cultural organisation we are conscious of the millions of lives lost on all sides through war and are pleased that this concert was so well attended,” said P J Phelan, ChairmanPortlaoiseCCÉ. Fear an Tí, Colm Phelan explained that the branch had been running a project for the past year to bring people from different cultural traditions together on this special occasion under the project title LIFE (Laois International Folk Ensemble), supported by LaoisPartnership. A Lithuanian Folk group performed the Welcome Dance from their tradition, while a talented group of instrumentalists, ranging in age from six to thirteen, gave an entertaining rendition of traditional Irish music. Savannah, an eight year old girl with Zimbabian origins earned the admiration of the audience with her rendition of Halleluia before an Interfaith Prayer Service for Peace which referenced fourteen major world religions.

The highlight was the collaboration between the Folk Orchestra and the LIFE project singers performance of original score entitled ’The Soldier’s Suite' by composer Áine McGeeney. The large orchestra transformed the score to a very moving sound underÁine’sbaton. Pieces included a representation of the farewell scenes as troops left home, the anticipation as they neared the front, the confusion and horror of battle and the respite of the short informal Christmas truce when enemies came face to face as human beings only to resort to hostilities againthenextday.

Such dramatic themes were softened by the interspersal of appropriate songs in French, Zulu and English languages as a sample of the forty six languages spoken in the countytoday. The concert was attended by Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform Charlie Flanagan, Portlaoise Municipal District Cathaoirleach, Catherine Fitzgerald MCC and other elected representatives with clergy of various denominations in a concert dedicated to working for peace. Complimenting the composer and performers, Minister Flanagan spoke of the significance of events which seek to unite rather than divide and the multi-lingual singing of the LIFE members was an excellent way to show harmony.

The Minister hoped that there should be a repeat of suchconcerts. ’The Soldier’s Suite is a very moving piece of music which captures the tension, sadness and anxiety during the conflict ending with a feeling of relief and hope which people experienced after such a dreadful war, greatcredittoallconcerned.” SeemoreonPg47. Portlaoise Comhaltas musicians Alain, Kurt, Noel, Erin and Coleen pictured in one of the remaining front line trenches during their visit to the Somme prior to the Concert at SS Peter & Paul’s Church.

AROUND THE TOWN COUNCIL REMEMBRANCE Laois County Council annual prayer service in memory of deceased staff and members of the council on Tuesday, November 13 in the council chamber at 6pm. Light refreshments after. People of all faiths are welcome to attend to remember colleagues and friends. PARISH LOTTO Portlaoise Parish Community Lotto draw results for Thursday, November 1. Nos: 17,26,27,31. No jackpot winner and no Match 3 winner. As a result the Match 3 fund for Thursday, November 8 was raised to €2,000. The jackpot will be €20,000. Results for Thursday, November 8. Nos drawn were: 6,8,19,23. Congrats to the €20,000 jackpot winner Noeleen Sinnott and promoterBernie Lalor. The 20 Match 3 winners won €100 each. Next jackpot will be €,000 ACTIVE RETIRED A series of new and interesting games and situations to occupy and keep the mind and body active, as well as being part of an enjoyable afternoon on November 14.

An opportunity to take part in some new and exciting dance routines devised by our esteemed dancing choreographer Maureen on November 21. No Meeting on November 28 week, as many of our members will be supporting the Portlaoise Musical Society’s presentation of “Titanic the Musical” at Dunamaise theatre. Bowls every Monday at 3pm in St. Mary’s Hall – regular and new members are always welcome. Play or learn Whist at Sue Ryder centre every Thursday 2.30-4pm all are welcome. MENS SHEDS Portlaoise Men's Shed is open Tuesdays & Thursdays at Portlaoise Equestrian Centre on the Timahoe Road from 11am to 3pm. New members welcome. HERITAGE JOURNAL Laois Heritage Society Heritage Journal No 9 launch on Friday, November 29 at 7.30pm by Minister Charlie Flanagan. Priced at €10 the journal is a must for heritage lovers. All welcome. Free admission.

LATE KEVIN BOWE Condolences to the family of the late Kevin Bowe, 66 Marian Ave, Portlaoise who died peacefully at home surrounded by family. Husband of Marie and father to Suzanne, Kevin, Robert, Sandra, Paul & Kenneth. Also regretted by brother Betty, Patty, Frank, extended family, relatives, friends. Reposed at home. Remvoal to SS Peter & Paul's Church for Requiem Mass. Burial at SS Peter & Paul's Cemetery. Donations, if desired, to the Palliative Care Services Laoise/Offaly. LATE DANIEL NORTON Condolences to the family of the late Dan Norton Sheffield Ave, Portlaoise who died on November 5. Busband of Margaret. Pre-deceased by his son Michael. Missed by family Mary, Martin, Donie, Margaret, Patrick, Gregory & Sheldon, extended family, relatives and friends. Reposed at home. Removal to SS Peter & Paul's Church for Requiem Mass. Burial after in SS Peter & Paul's Cemetery.

LATE BILL O'REILLY Condolences to the family of the late Bill O'Reilly “Marian House”, Dublin Rd, Portlaoise who died on November 5 peacefully surrounded by his loving family. (Ex fruit merchant) Bill is missed by wife Maura and family Fiona Miriam, Melissa, William & Peter. Deeply regretted brothers Martin, Jas and sister Eileen, extended family, relatives, friends. Reposed at Keegan's funeral home. Removal to SS Peter & Paul’s Church to arrive for requiem Mass. Burial in SS Peter and Paul’s Cemetery. LATE RITA BRESLIN Condolences to the family of the late Rita Breslin (nee Allen), late of, Drogheda and formerly of Kilminchy, Portlaoise who died on November 1 peacefully in her 96th year at TLC Nursing Home, Maynooth. Pre deceased by her husband Peter and daughter Ann-Marie. Sadly missed by sons John and Pat, extended family, relatives, friends. Funeral and burial in Drogheda.

PORTLAOISE NEWS HAVE YOU GOT A STORY FOR US? CONTACT OUR NEWS TEAM NOW e: news@leinsterexpress.ie t: 057 86 21666 Portlaoise hurlers proud to be 'Town to the Core' The Portlaoise hurling team who played Glenealy of Wicklow in the Leinster Intermediate Club Hurling Championship at Joule Park, Aughrim on Saturday PICTURE: DAVE BARRETT COMMUNITY 27 EXPRESS REPORTER news@leinsterexpress.ie

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie AROUND THE AREA E-mail:mountmellicknotes@hotmail.com BALCONY CINEMA Wednesday November 14, 8pm: ‘The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie ociety’. Admission €5 includes tea. EXHIBITION Kilbride art students are holding an exhibition of their work in the library gallery for the month of November during library opening hours. A number of the artworks are for sale at affordable prices. All welcome along to view. TALKS FOR PARENTS Upcoming talk for parents in the library: Tuesday November 27, 7.30pm to 8.30pm, ‘raising competent teenagers’ with Positive Parenting.

REUNION MASS Reunion Mass for Knock Lourdes and Assis/Rome will be in St Patrick’s BNS, Davitt Road on Wednesday November 14 at 7.30 pm. All welcome. MONSTER AUCTIO The Rock GAA annual monster auction is being held on Sunday November 18 from 2pm in the clubhouse. This is the club’s major fundraiser, all support welcomed. Items for auction can be dropped into the clubhouse or contact any committee member for collection. IVY CHAPEL Rosary will be recited in the Ivy Chapel cemetery on Sunday November 18 at 3pm. All welcome. EARLY MASS On Tuesday mornings in November, Mass will be celebrated at 7.30am in St Joseph’s Church to remember our Faithful Departed family members and friends.

SOCIAL EVENING A social evening will be held in Wolfe Tone Court on Thursday November 22 from 8.30pm to 11pm. All are welcome along to partake in a raffle and enjoy entertainment, refreshments and music. Looking forward to seeing you all there. LITTLE BLACK DRESS The annual Little Black Dress ladies night out in aid of the Ben & Jake Connolly Trust is on Saturday November 24 in Turley’s Pub. Spot prizes galore including a door prize, red carpet entry, music by Jim Jam and fashion inspo guest Jill Blanc McDermott all combine to make this a great night out for you and your friends. Tickets now on sale from O’Horain’s, Turley’s, World of Sparkles and Hera Hair.

COMHALTAS Classes are now being held in the LOETB centre (old vocational school), The Harbour (near Turley’s) on Tuesday nights. Áine’s classes: 6.30pm beginners; 7pm 2nd beginners; 7.30pm 3rd beginners. Patricia’s classes: 6.30pm pure beginners fiddle & other instruments; 7pm intermediate; 7.30pm advanced. Classes €2 until end of December. Traditional music classes every Tuesday night, starting at 6.30pm. Classes €2 for a limited time for all members. Singers and dancers also welcome along. All ages welcome.

BINGO Each Sunday evening from 8.30pm to 10.15pm in the Arts Centre. All welcome along. CLOTHING BANK St Vincent de Paul thanks all who continue to support their clothing bank located in the yard of Glanbia. GROW Meetings on Thursdays at 7.30pm in MDA. All welcome. Call Michelle 086 4183805. BABY BOOK CLUB Baby Book Club is at 10.30am on Tuesdays. Introduce your baby or young child to books and nurture a love of reading. Suitable for babies from 0 to 3 years with their parents and siblings. Socialise with other babies and children, listen to rhymes, sing along and get reading tips.

JUNIOR CHESS Junior Chess Club held on Saturdays from 10.30am to 11.30am for ages 7 to13 in the library. Basic knowledge required. DRAMA Little Theatre, School of Drama, for children is in the Macra Hall each Wednesday. Tots: 4pm to 5.30pm; Inters: 5.30pm to 7pm and seniors: 7pm to 8.30pm. For details call 085 8340436. COMPUTER CLASSES Anyone interested in a beginner’s computer course in the library call 057 8644572 for details. RUNNERS Mountmellick Road Runners beginner’s programme starts in November. For information call Dave Scanlan 086 8837076.

November 1. Old School. Top score P Stephenson. Lady 1 T Mulhare. 2 M Gowing. Gent 1 T Kearns. 2 H Kelly. Half 1 J Fox. 2 J O’Shea. Raffle H Kelly, D Kelly (x2). ROCK LOTTO No jackpot winner. €20 J Jestin, S Hartnett, C McGuire, E Scott, P Conlon. Jackpot €3,000.Tickets available online www.klubfunder.com/ Clubs/The_Rock_Gaa_club THANKS The Rock GAA thanks all who attended the Halloween fancy dress party and donated to the Go Fund Me Page. It was a massive success and both charities will benefit greatly. The Club also acknowledge the massive work down by the organising committee. ALZHEIMER’S SOCIETY Laois Alzheimer's Society Resource Centre at 47 Main Street Portlaoise is open Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm. A new cookbook ‘A Taste to Remember’ in now on sale in the centre at €20 and would be an ideal Christmas gift. The family carers support group meets on Wednesday November 21 from 7.30pm to 9pm in the Resource Centre. For information on dementia call home care co-ordinator Ann Munnelly on 057 866 3398 or 086 8372168 LATE CHRISTINA WARD The death occurred on Sunday October 28 of Christina Ward of Belfast and of Mountmellick. Christina’s passing is most sincerely regretted by her loving family to whom the sincere sympathy of the community is extended. Reposal took place on Friday November 2 in Moloney’s Funeral Home until removal to St Joseph’s Church, arriving at 6pm. Requiem Mass was celebrated at 11am on Saturday with burial in St Joseph’s cemetery. MONSTER BINGO Monster Christmas Bingo with €5,000 prize money on Sunday Nov 25 in Mountrath Community School at 3pm. Double book €15, single book €10, single sheet €2. Big raffle with all cash prizes. Lots of spot prizes on the day. All welcome.

Monster Auction at the Rock GAA club The Rock GAA Club in Mountmellickwillhostoneof its big annual fundraisers thisweekend. The Rock GAA Monster Auction is a great day out for bargain hunters and those in the market for some top quality products at competitiveprices. The funds raised will go back into the GAA club juveniles to help with the club’s running costs and the cost of equipment for the young up and coming members. This is the fifth year of the auction which has proved to be a huge success for the club with the local community getting behind the day and finding a fun new way to shop.

Auction lovers from all over the country have grown to love the day too travelling to attend over the last few years. Some of the items for sale on the day will include turf, farm supplies and fodder, wardrobes, electrics, hard furniture, bric-a-brac, household items and much more. Items for sale can still be dropped to the clubhouse or club members can help with collectionifneeded. The Monster Auction will start at 2.00pm on Sunday, November 18 and continue untileverythingissold. The auction takes place in the Rock GAA Clubhouse on the Emo Road out of Mountmellick.

The club recently held a Halloween fancy dress party andraisedfundsforTheIrish Lung Fibrosis Association And The Cuisle Cancer Support Centre. The night was a huge success with all the locals turning out in their bestcostumes. Through an online fundraiser, a collection at Supervalu in Mountmellick and proceeds ont he night of thefancydresspartytheclub raised an €5,200 for the two charities. The committee wishes to thank everyone for theircontinuedgenerosity. MICHELLE HOGAN Michelle.hogan@leinsterexpress.ie MOUNTMELLICK NEWS HAVE YOU GOT A STORY FOR US? CONTACT OUR NEWS TEAM NOW e: news@leinsterexpress.ie t: 057 86 21666 COMMUNITY 28 Niamh Lawlor, Diarmuid Joyce and Ellen Horan at the Rock GAA club charity fancy dress night in Turleys Bar Mountmellick which raised €5,200 for two charities Mountmellick Macra facebook snaps of the life of farming LaoisMacranaFeirmeisholdinga photographyexhibitionthisweekwhich cameoutofaideatopromotefarmingand Macra.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie AROUND THE TOWN E-mail: portnotes@live.com FIRE STATION Portarlington Fire Station held a successful opening night at the station and for the 3rd year in a row welcomed a huge crowd. The officers held demonstrations, the children got to sit in the fire engine, and also a tent was set up to demonstrate the reality of a a fire and the visibility factor. Well done to all at the station for all the hard work though out the year. BOOK LAUNCH Fr. Sean Hyland launches his book, ‘Whisperings of My Soul’, with the help of Bishop Denis Nulty on Friday December 7 at 8pm in the Port GAA Centre. Fr. Sean, of the parish of Rhode and Clonbullogue, invites everyone to this launch and appreciates any support with the launch and promotion of his book. Contact Fr. Sean at email hylandjohnliz@yahoo.ie / Ph: 087-9486769.

BRIDGE NIGHT ST. CONLETH’S L.G.F.C. are holding a bridge night fundraiser in O’Dempsey’s Clubhouse, Killenard on Friday November 16 at 7.30pm. Sub: €10 – Supper/ prizes / raffle. AGM The AGM of the Portarlington Community Development Association will take place on Monday November 19. at 7.30 pm in the Portarlington Community Centre. Please come along & hear about all the Projects the PCDA are involved in. SHOE BOX APPEAL Portarlington Credit Union are linking up with Team Hope again this year to help those less fortunate and taking part in this year’s Shoe Box Appeal. We have leaflets in the office with all the information & what can and cannot go into the boxes.

1. Get a shoe box and wrap it in Christmas Paper. 2. Fill it with little goodies for male/female in a certain age category. 3. Put your sticker provided on the front of the box to indicate the age & gender. 4. Put €4 in the envelope provided. (this covers insurance & transportation costs). 5. Drop it into the office BEFORE November 16. This simple gesture gives so much happiness to many children. MONDAY NIGHT DANCING Dancing in aid of Portarlington St Vincent de Paul continues every Monday night in the Gandon Inn Hotel & Restaurant. November 19-dancing to the Blue, John Maher.

Admission €8. Dancing 9.30pm to 12. A great night assured. FUNDRAISER The committee would like to thank everyone who came and supported the fundraiser for a Defibrillator for Cloneyhurke. It was a great night with entertainment from John & Ava Tobin, John Styles and Olivia Douglas. Thank you to all who gave donations and items for our raffles. It was great to see such support for a great cause. EMO FAIR Emo Art & Craft fair will be held on Sunday November 18 from 11.30am - 5pm. Spaces are filling up, some new exhibitors already. For more details contact Stephanie at 0868378659.

ALZHEIMER'S SOCIETY Laois Alzheimer's Society Resource Centre at 47 Main Street Portlaoise is open Monday to Friday 9am-5pm. We have the new Cookbook on sale “A Taste to Remember” in our Resource Centre with beautiful recipes and stories. An ideal Christmas Gift at €20. Church Gate Collection on the weekend of November 17 and 18 in Portarlington, Killenard and Emo. Your support would be greatly appreciated. Family Carers Support Group on Wednesday November 21 from 7.30pm-9pm in Resource Centre, 47 Main Street, Portlaoise R32 VRX8. The support group provide an opportunity to meet others in a similar situation, to access information and practical advice in a supportive environment.

Open to family members affected by dementia and memory issues. For any information on dementia contact Ann Munnelly on 057 866 3398/086 8372168. Home-care Coordinator 47 Main Street, Portlaoise, Co Laois R32 VRX8 Email laois.branch@alzheimer. FRIENDS TOGETHER Friends Together Social Cub meet every Tuesday & Friday in the Scouts Den, Main St from 2.30 to 5pm. Why not call in for a free cuppa & chat. We also play board games, table quiz, art and craft classes. Contact 0872788472 for more information about our club.

BINGO Bingo continues every Tuesday night at 8.30pm in the Port GAA Club. Over €2,500 in prize money. "CUPS AGAINST CANCER" Congratulations to Maura in the Portarlington Community Centre for hosting a wonderful "Cups against Cancer" Coffee morning in October to raise funds for the Irish Cancer Society Ireland. Maura raised €420 for the charity. Thanks to everyone who came down to support. BRACKNAGH TRACTOR Well done to all involved in the Bracknagh Tractor run in October which saw a huge turnout to raise much needed funds for charity. They will be handing over €15,000 to CMRF this year, what an amazing achievement! ST PAT'S NS VICTORY Well done to St. Patrick’s Boys National School who recently won the Offaly Cumann na mBunscol Final in O’ Connor Park, Tullamore.

It was a great game, and a historic one too, as they said farewell to Offaly Cumann na mBunscol. Well done to all the boys and their coaches and to all those who came out to support the team. A great team effort and a wonderful way to end the teams association with Offaly Football Cumann na mBunscol. The school is crossing the River Barrow in 2019 and will be hoping to compete in the Laois finals in O'Moore Park. SCIENCE FESTIVAL The Midlands Science Festival takes place across Laois and Offaly from November 11 – 18 and promises a full programme of innovative and fun hands-on events. One of the activities is an insect folklore video workshop with entomologist Nessa Darcy which includes a short learning session about insects, their habitats and conservation needs. Children will get a chance to make up their own insect story, which will be recorded, and to create their own rudimentary paper insect puppets and background to act out a video to illustrate their story. This workshop is suitable for aged 8+ and takes place in Portarlington Library on November 14 at 11 am and again at 2 pm.

COMMUNITY AWARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel on Tuesday, November 20. It total 22 individuals are shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories. Sure to be a big night for all. The Leinster Express is support this years awards which are organised by the Laois Public Participation Network at Laois County Council. Fundraising for Cloneyhurke Laura Conway and Caroline Whelehan, at the Fundraiser for a Defibrillator for Cloneyhurke area at Portarlington Golf Club PICTURE: MICHAEL SCULLY Portarlington's lung transplant man given special honour Portarlington resident and lung transplant recipient Val Kennedy was given special recognition at an awards presentation hosted by TullamoreGolfClub. Around 200 people attended the special event at Tullamore Golf Club on Saturday, November 3 which also celebrated teams and individualmembers. Val was honoured for increasing organ donor awareness and his participation in European Heart and Lung Transplant Championships which were heldinItalyinJune2018. While being honoured at the event Val, a Tullamore town native who lives in Railway Mews, Portarlington was happy to share the message about the importance of organ donation and transplantation and with the support of kidney transplant recipient Dermot Glynn on the night, many of the attendees were inspired to take home organ donor cards.

Val, an avid golfer suffered asuddenanddramatichealth decline in April 2015 just four days after winning a golf competition at Tullamore GolfClub. A lung transplant was his only hope of survival after receiving a diagnosis of Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis which left him 24 hour oxygen supply dependant. The former Tullamore based businessman underwent his life saving single lung transplant in Spring 2016 at theMaterHospitalDublin. “I feel honoured and grateful to be among the wonderful talent given special recognition by Tullamore Golf Club. It's thanks to my donor who gave me the gift of life that I am heretoday,”hesaid.Fororgan donorcardsFreetextDONOR to 50050 or visit the Irish Kidney Association website www.ika.ie Lung transplant recipient and Portarlngtoon resident Val Kennedy (centre) with Tullamore Golf Club Lady Captain Stephanie McNiff and Mens Captain Brian Gunning CONOR GANLY conor.ganly@leinsterexpress.ie PORTARLINGTON NEWS HAVE YOU GOT A STORY FOR US? CONTACT OUR NEWS TEAM NOW e: news@leinsterexpress.ie t: 057 86 21666 COMMUNITY 29

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Laois marks centenary of World War I peace Towns around Laois marked the 100th anniversary of the end of World War I and the localinvolvementlastweek. Portlaoise's commemoration marked the deaths of local soldiers who died between 1914 and 1918, with a wreath laying at the WorldWarImemorialonMill View. The UN veterans group Post 27 attended alongside clergy and public representatives. The Memorial in Millview honours 17 officers and 160 NCOsandmenoftheLeinster Regiment’s Fourth Battalion who perished in the 1914-18 war.

The wreath laying was preceded by a memorial serviceat11.15am. The Mountrath Historical Society marked the centenary with an event the centrepiece of which was the unveiling of a plaque remembering 44 local men whodiedintheconflict. The event took place at ThePeaceGardenontheLink Road. The society also launched the 2019 calendar of pictorial memoriesontheday. A series of events took place last week in Mountmellick. Local people gathered on the centenary at the World War I memorial at Mountmellick Library to markthelocal menwho died, andtheendoftheGreatWar. Later that evening at town's the library there was a spoken word evening of remembrance for those who served and lost their lives fromthearea.

Poetry, prose, newspaper articles and narratives about those who served were recited. The Mountmellick World War I Research and Commemoration committee also organised a fundraiser forMountmellick'smemorial with screening of the ‘Journey’s End’ film about World War 1 last Thursday in the Balcony Cinema. A coffee morning was also held in The Forum Hostel to review Mountmellick’swarrole. An Armistice Day ecumenical service of remembrance was held on Friday, November 9 at 8pm in St Paul’s, the French Church, Portarlington.

Memorial event in Mountmellick Michael Hetherington, whose great grand uncle Richard Hetherington McKenna who died in the war lay a wreath at the Mountrath Historic Link Road PICTURE: ALF HARVEY Pat McSpadden (chairman) and Lindsey Cuddy Cllr Willie Aird and Paddy Phelan greet each other Some of the large attendance Member of Irish United Nations Veterans Association Post 27 PICTURE: DENIS BYRNE Patrick Origan and Denis Farrell from Post 27 UN Veterans lay a wreath Dr. Larry Fullam (choir master), Archdeacon Leslie Stevenson, Rector and David Orford (organiser) PICTURE: MICHAEL SCULLY COMMUNITY 30 DO YOU HAVE COMMUNITY NEWS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE HERE? Please contact 057 86 21666 or email: news@leinsterexpress.ie Steven Conroy who read a poem at the ceremony

Dorothy and William Chambers 31 Fr. Tom Dooley, P.P. and Archdeacon Leslie Stevenson, Rector with parishioners with parishioners who read the names of locals who died in WW1 Ger Lynch, Organiser John King, Cathaoirleach Laois Co Co, Anne Sands and members Irish Veterans of Post 27 Tony Flanagan, Peace Commissioner Carmel Orford and Anne Murphy Wreaths are laid at the memorial Denis Kavanagh, Ken Keogh, Jenny Champ Hendy and Lilly Champ Jimmy Shiels, Joe McEvoy and John Molloy John King, Cathaoirleach Laois County Council with Piper Stefan O'Reilly of Post 27 n died in the war and Evelyn O'Connor, niece of Lance Cpl Peter cal Society Great War plaque unveiling at the Peace Garden on the Margaret and Eamonn Meagher who represented her grandfather by wearing his bravery medals COMMUNITY

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie AROUND THE COUNTY ABBEYLEIX/DURROW-CULLOHILL/ROSENALLIS ABBEYLEIX E-mail: news@leinsterexpress.ie LITTLE BLACK DRESS Little Black Dress Night in aid of the Abbeyleix Christmas lights takes place in Benny's on Friday, November 23, from 9 am. Please support. DJ playing the sound of the last five decades. COPPER MOUNTAIN The Copper Mountain fundraiser in aid of the lights is also up and running at Benny's please support. OPEN DOOR THEATRE Laois Open Door Theatre commences on 2018/2019 schedule of productions with 2 One Act Plays “Any Body for Tea” and “Roman Affairs”. These are two comedy acts and guarantee a night of comedy and laughter. There will also be song and music on the night. Staged in Abbeyleix on Thursday, November 15, Manor Hotel, Abbeyleix, at 8pm Adm €10. And of course there will be the welcome cuppa at the interval. With these productions Laois Open Door is delighted to welcome new members to the stage which is the life bold of the group. A night of comedy and laughter not to be missed. CHRISTMAS FAIR The Abbeyleix Christmas Fair takes place on December 8 next. Volunteers are sought to help. Contact christmasfair@ abbeyleix.ie PAT SHORTT IN ABBEYLEIX Pat Shortt brings his latest show, Hey to the Manor Hotel in Abbeyleix. This hilarious show guarantees a great night out and is running on the 16th and 17th Nov. For more information click here. BENEFIT NIGHT Benefit night for the late Jack Callaghan in the Horseshoe Inn on Friday, Nov 16 at 9pm. Music by the Wild Rovers. ABBEYLEIX WHIST Top Kathleen Kavanagh, 1st Lady Bridget Cashin, 2nd Lady Nora Carroll. 1st Gent Barry O' Callaghan, 2nd Gent Margaret Brennan. 1st Half Billy Carter, 2nd Half Nora Breen.

Juvenile 1st Draw Frank Fogarty, 2nd Draw Sheila Fogarty, 3rd Draw Maria Kavanagh, 4th Draw Bernie Cahill. COMMUNITY A WARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 in the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise on Tuesday, November 20. Up to 250 people due to attend. 22 individuals shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories. LAOIS ALZHEIMERS Laois Alzheimer's have the new Cookbook on sale 'A Taste to Remember' in our Resource Centre at 47 Main St Portlaoise. For any info on dementia contact Ann Munnelly on 057 866 3398/086 8372168 Home-care Coordinator 47 Main Street, Portlaoise, Co Laois R32 VRX8. MASS OF REMEMBRANCE Mass to remember all those who were close to us in life and who are no longer with us will be celebrated on Tuesday, November 13 at 7.30pm in the Church of the Most Holy Rosary, Abbeyleix. All are welcome to attend.

SOCIAL DANCING Social dance lessons every Thursday night at 8.15 in Abbeyleix Golf Club All welcome. PAT SHORTT IN ABBEYLEIX Pat Shortt in the Manor Hotel in Abbeyleix on the 16th and 17th November. LATE MENA HILL Condolences to the family of the late Mena Hill, Castleblayney, Co Monaghanand formerly of Rathmoyle, Abbeyleix who died peacefully at St Mary's Hospital, Castleblaney, Co. Monaghan on November 6. Deeply regretted by her loving family, relatives and friends. Reposed at St Mary's Hospital and the Chapel of Adoration adjoining The Church of The Most Holy Rosary, Abbeyleix. Removal to The Church of The Most Holy Rosary, Abbeyleix for Requiem Mass. Burial in the adjoining cemetery. ICA There was a good attendance at the Abbeyleix ICA montly meeting on November 6 presided over by President Helen Ryan. Minutes of October were read by secretary Catherine Smith and financial report given by treasurer Nora Carroll.Get well wishes were extended to Bride Reilly. Six members attended a recent activity day in Timahoe which was enjoyed by all and a huge crowd attended. Pole activity class begins in Gort Na Noir Abbeyleix on Tues, Nov13 at 2p.m. For 4weeks. A craft day will take place in Castletown on Sat, Nov 10 and all classes fully booked up. Winter federation meeting will take place in Ballylinan on Sun, Nov 25 at2p.m and our guild will be represented. Annual Christmas raffle in Leonard's bar on Sat Dec 15th at 10 pm tickets from any member. Knitting group meets on Wed mornings in Abbeyleix library 10.30am - 12.30pm all welcome. Laois federation choir meet for practise on Monday evenings at Parish Centre Portlaoise and new members welcome. Monthly competition for soda bread 1st A Reilly 2nd S Chester. Competition for Dec meeting 4mince pies. Raffle winners 1st H Ryan. 2nd N Carroll. A lovely afternoon tea was served by hostess Maureen O'Keefe. That concluded the meeting. Next meeting on Tuesday, December 4 at 8 pm. Remembrance trad in Portlaoise Members of Portlaoise Comhaltas performing at the Remembering War 2014 Concert in St Peter & Paul's Church, Portlaoise PICTURE: ALF HARVEY.

COMMUNITY 32 DO YOU HAVE COMMUNITY NEWS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE HERE? Please contact 057 86 21666 or email: news@leinsterexpress.ie DURROW/ CULLOHILL YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT MARTIN LALOR 087 218 5839 E-mail: sparky131@hotmail.com LOTTO The Parish Lotto with a jackpot of €1, 600 was not won on Monday night November 5. Winner of €30 euro Frank Dunne, 25 euro Angela Drennan and €20 Noreen Joyce. The lotto of November 19 will be held in Mark Lennon’s Bar with a possible jackpot of €1,900. All tickets must be handed in before 9.30 pm on the night of the draw to be included in that jackpot.

WHIST The next Killermogh Parishes Whist Drive will be held on Thursday November 22 at 8.30 pm. PILATES Pilates Classes will resume at Cullohill Community Centre on Tuesday November 06 from 13.30 to 14.30 and will continue for ever Tuesday for November. All are welcome. LAOIS OPEN DOOR Night of comedy and laughter from the Laois Open Door Theatre will commence their 2018/2019 schedule of productions with two one act plays “Any Body for Tea” and “Roman Affairs”. These are two comedy acts and guarantee a night of comedy and laughter. There will also be song and music on the night. Thursday 15th November, Manor Hotel, Abbeyleix, at 8pm Adm €10 With these productions Laois Open Door is delighted to welcome new members to the stage which is the life bold of the group. A night of comedy and laughter not to be missed. CRAFT FAIR Durrow Craft Fair 2018 will be held in the Castle Arms Hotel, Durrow on Saturday November 17. For more information contact Mary on (087) 2200199 or durrowcraftfairs@gmail.com by email.

MODELS & TOYS Durrow Die Cast Model and Toy Show will be held in the Manor Hotel, Abbeyleix on Saturday, December 8 from 12 Noon to 6 pm and on Sunday, December 9 from 10 am to 5 pm. Great family day out. Admission is €5 adult, children free. More information contact Austin 0868860598. ICA. CULLOHILL The November meeting of Cullohill ICA was held in the Community Centre on Tuesday night. Votes of sympathy were passed and prayers were said for the families of Billy Kirby and Kathleen Bolger. The Pilates classes organised by the ICA Guild continues every Tuesday from 1.30 pm to 2.30 pm for month of November. The Raffle prizes were won by Mary Bergin, Breda Dunphy, Sheila Moore. Four members of the Guild will be present at the Federation meeting in Ballylinan on Sunday November 25. The meeting concluded with a nice cuppa and next meeting will be held on Tuesday December 04 at 8 pm.

MASS FOR DECEASED Mass on Saturday November 17 at 8 pm in St Tighearnach Church, Cullohill will be celebrated for all deceased Members of the Cullohill Community. Families are asked to come and remember their family members who have passed away. COMMUNITY AWARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel on Tuesday, November 20. It total 22 individuals are shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories. Sure to be a big night for all. The Leinster Express is support this years awards which are organised by the Laois Public Participation Network at Laois County Council.

CLOTHES COLLECTION Collection is being organised for November 23rd so anyone who wishes to contribute bags of clean clothes can leave them into the Community Hall any morning, Monday to Friday. All in aid of the National Council for the Blind and Durrow Community Centre. Your support will be much appreciated. HARPS CAMOGIE CLUB Well done to the Harps senior camogie team who won the league final recently defeating St.Brigids in the decider. The girls produced a brilliant comeback to come from six points down at half time to win on a scoreline of 2-09 to 0-11. Congratulations! DURROW LIBRARY: Congrats to the Durrow branch of the Laois Libraries Lego Studio who’s film “The Mystery of the Missing Words” had its first screening at the Dunamaise Arts Centre on Saturday, October 13. The group worked on the lego film back in April. It was shown along with nine other films to celebrate the Lego film project which Lori Moriarty and Thomas Maher started in Durrow and Abbeyleix Library, and which has now spread across Laois and into Kilkenny. Well done again to Tony Mahony, Grace and Mia O’Connor, Sophie Lawlor, Lucy Leonard, Conor and Joey Dempsey, Conor Moore and Liam Townsend. If anyone wants to keep up to date with the activities run by the Durrow Library please call in! ROSENALLIS YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT SHEILA MAHON 087 619 7133 E-mail: shemahon@gmail.com IVY CEMETERY ROSARY November 18th Rosary will be recited in Ivy Cemetery on Sun. Nov. 18th at 3.00pm in memory of all our Faithful Departed.

PARENTS ASSOCIATION Annual church gate collection is on Saturday 24th & Sunday 25th November, all donations welcome, thank you for your continued support. SLIEVE BLOOM WALKS Sunday 18th November Glenafelly meet at Kinnitty Community Centre at 11am Grade B 9km Duration 3-4 hrs Leader Sonja Cadogan. COMMUNITY AWARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel on Tuesday, November 20. It total 22 individuals are shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories. Sure to be a big night for all. The Leinster Express is support this years awards which are organised by the Laois Public Participation Network at Laois County Council.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie COMMUNITY 33 DO YOU HAVE COMMUNITY NEWS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE HERE? Please contact 057 86 21666 or email: news@leinsterexpress.ie AROUND THE COUNTY BORRIS-IN-OSSORY/CAMROSS BORRIS-IN- OSSORY YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT LILY SHEERAN E-mail: kavsballymeelish@eircom.net COMMUNITY AWARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel on Tuesday, November 20. It total 22 individuals are shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories. Sure to be a big night for all. The Leinster Express is support the awards organised by the Laois Public Participation Network at Laois County Council.

ICA Monthly meeting of Borris-in-Ossory ICA Guild in St Canice’s Hall on Wednesday night November 7 presided over by Helen Kavanagh, Vice President. Sympathy vote was passed with the family of the late Nancy Geraghty, a former President of the guild, who died recently. Arrangements made for eight members of the guild to attend the Winter Federation meeting in Ballylinan on Sunday November 25. Several members expressed interest in the Line Dancing classes bit it was decided to defer them until the Spring. Entries for the childhood memories competition were collected and are now being judged. Competition prize is Nancy Fagan Silver Salver, which was presented to the guild by Nancy’s daughter and granddaughters.

Members were reminded about the Mulled Wine event at Manor Stone Ballacolla on Thursday November 29th. It is hoped to have a guild Christmas Party, date and venue to be arranged. Competition for the best Homemade Tea Brack was won by Mary Teehan, 2nd Helen Kavanagh, 3rd Rosie Kealy and the raffle winners were Helen Kavanagh and Lily Sheeran. The members then filled almost one hundred shoeboxes for the Team Hope Christmas Children’s Shoebox Appeal. Thanks is extended to everyone who donated toys, clothes, books, pens, soap, toothbrushes etc for the shoeboxes, also those who gave cash donations which will be used to purchase further items to fill boxes. The next meeting will take place on Wednesday December 5th and the competition will be the Best Handmade Christmas Tree Decoration.

MENS SHED Borris-in-Ossory Men's Shed is known for improving men's mental health and wellbeing. The Men's Shed is perfect for you if you are interested in - chat and a cuppa, small wood work projects, upcycling ideas, book exchange, pool /darts/ rings, card games, etc. Men of all ages are welcome. Othere projects can be addded in the future all depending on your requests. New Members are welcome to join the Mens Shed on Tuesday evenings at 7.30pm Donations - Sought: We would be grateful if you have any unwanted or unused Wood Tools, Saws, Power planer, Wood Laide, or any implements you think might help us enhance our aspirations of what we can accomplish going forward - Wood work Benches would really help us. You can leave in on any Tuesday evening or make contact with any Committee members or call in any day from Nov 19th. Opening hours: From Monday Nov 19th the premises will be opened daily from 2 - 5pm and two evenings on Tuesday /Wednesdays from 7-9pm After a few weeks we can firm up opening times to suit all, as you the members will decide going forward. Your support for this new venture in the Parish is very important to its success - Please come in and join us and make this a great success for all WOMENS SHED PROJECT The results of the needs assessment for the community indicated that a significant number of ladies wished to form a Women’s Shed Project. To facilitate this, a public meeting will be held in the Old Boy’s School. All age groups are welcome.

The intention for this project is as follows. The Shed project will offer an opportunity for women of all ages to connect or re-connect with friends and newcomers within our community. It will be a safe place, where all can interact and participate in projects of their choice at their own pace, or simply relax have laugh and chat over a cuppa. It will be a place where new ideas/interests can be developed and shared. All are welcome to a meeting to discuss the development of this important project. Takes place on November 22 at 7.30pm at St Canice’s Hall. SOCIAL IN KILLASMEESTIA Monthly Parish Social in Killasmeestia Community Centre on Friday, November 16. Music by John and Terry. Dancing 9.30pm to 12.30am and supper will be served. BRIDGE CLUB Borris-in-Ossory Bridge club resulsts: October 9th 1. Rose Dunphy & Mary McCarthy 2. Teresa Butler & Irene Delaney; October 16th 1. Kathleen Phelan & Josephine Campion 2. Margaret Scott & Noreen Fitzgerald; October 23rd 1. Irene Delaney & Teresa Butler 2. Stella Kealy & Pat Kelly. LATE NANCY GERAGHTY The death took place on 23rd October 2018 at Queen of Peace Nursing Home of Nancy (Anne) Geraghty, Née Gillick, Skerries, Co. Dublin, (late of Mullingar). Funeral Mass in St Patrick's Church, Skerries. burial afterwards in Ardla Cemetery. Wife of the late Joe Joe Geraghty who was Stationmaster at Ballybrophy Railway Station in the 1970s and he and his wife and family made many friends during their time in Ballybrophy. The late Nancy was a member of Borris in Ossory ICA Guild and was President of the guild in 1977. Beloved mother of the late Rosaleen is sadly missed by her son Andrew, daughters Margaret, Gerardine and Josephine, brother Eddie extended family, relatives, friends.Sympathy is extended to her family and relatives. BINGO Senior Citizens monthly bingo organised by Borris-in-Ossory Social Services in St Canice’s Hall on Saturday November 17th from 3pm-5pm. IRISH CLASSES Classes for adults in spoken Irish in Scoil Bhríde Rathdowney Mondays at 7pm (0505) 46546. Gaelscoil Ballaghmore Tuesdays at 7pm (0505) 41810.

CRAFT FAIR A craft fair will take place in Aghancon on Sunday November 18th from 11am to 5pm. Helping launch new Borris plan Carol Giles and Sr Regina at the launch in Rosie O'Grady's of the Borris in Ossory Community Plan 2018-2022 PICTURE: ALF HARVEY. CAMROSS YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT PAT DELANEY 089 416 9262 E-mail: laoisvoice@gmail.com ACTIVE RETIREMENT The Active Retirement annual dinner will take place on Sunday, 16th December. The Chiropodist will visit on 6th December. Our bingo will be held on 25th November.

BINGO Weekly Bingo every Friday night in the Parish Hall Camross, Doors open 7pm, first number called at 7.45 pm sharp. Over €1,600 in prizes to be won every Friday night, Bus available, free to holders of the Travel Pass. Contact (057) 86 92168 before Friday at 4pm to book your seat. TREE OF REMEMBRANCE Just a reminder there is still plenty of time for those wishing to remember their loved ones in the month of Holy Souls November. The remembrance tree is located on the Altar in St Fergal’s church and by including names on the slip of paper provided and attaching it to the branch all these names will be remembered at all Masses in the Parish in the month of November. On Sunday November 25th a special remberance Mass will be celebrated in St Fergal’s at 11 o’clock for all deceased of the Parish.

GAA Once again the Camross bid for success in the Leinster club championship ended at the first fence on Sunday week they welcomed Wexford champions Naomh Eanna to Portlaoise but after a promising start they lost their way and although showed improvement in the second half they had too much ground to make up and they were first to congratulate their conquerors from the Slaney who now welcome title favourites Ballyhale Shamrocks to Wexford Park on Sunday next. The team will be relieved at the break but would wish to have had a greater run in this competition but it was not to be. The club would like to extend sincere congratulations to Ciaran Collier who was selected by sports writer as Laois club hurler of the year a first for Rosnacreena and few could argue with his selection. Last year the honour went to Joe Phelan and Ciaran becomes the tenth senior award winner the first was John Carroll 1974 his brother Michael 1979, Paddy Dowling 1976, Frank Keenan 1979, his son Zane 2007 and 2013, Martin Cuddy 1980, Joe Doran 1996, (No awards 1985-1995) Joe Phelan 2016, Ciaran Collier 2018. Ciaran will be presented with his award in the Midlands Park Hotel on this Friday 15th November at the Laois County board awards Dinner.

Congratulations Congratulations to the Camross players involved with Mountrath Vocational School St Aonghus that defeated Birr CS in the rest of Leinster hurling decider on Tuesday last in Tullamore but face a difficult assignment when they play the Dublin champions in the Leinster final proper possibly later this week. The under fourteen team suffered another loss to the Harps and were scheduled to play Abbeyleix on Sunday last and finally meet Portlaoise on Sunday week at Portlaoise venue. Last Saturday Camross under nineteen team were scheduled to play Clough-Ballacolla in the final round of round robin serie.

Check Laois GAA website for details.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie AROUND THE COUNTY CLONASLEE/MONASTEREVIN/CLOUGH-BALLACOLLA CLONASLEE YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT ANETTE DOOLAN E-mail: aedoolan83@gmail.com COMMUNITY AWARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel on Tuesday, November 20. It total 22 individuals are shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories. Sure to be a big night for all. The Leinster Express is support this years awards which are organised by the Laois Public Participation Network at Laois County Council.

SENIOR CITIZENS DINNER Senior citizens dinner will be on Sunday December 2 at 1 pm in the Community Centre. No invitations will be sent out. Anyone who is entitled to come, please phone Chairman John on 083-471-2546 or Secretary Maura on 087-212-2766 before November 28 as dinners need to be ordered. Raffle on the day and plenty of spot prizes. Music will be by Rock on Paddy COMMUNITY ALERT As the dark, long nights approach please be extra vigilant. Press your panic button if worried or frightened. You can contact Teresa on 087-970-5651. Use your peep hole. Don’t open your door to strangers, always ask for ID. Report suspicious callers. CCTV cameras, to date, they cannot go up owing to data controller. We are in the same predicament as many other groups. SOCIAL SERVICES Our church gate collection will be November 17/18. Your support is much appreciated BUS TO LIMERICK On Saturday November 24 leaving Clonaslee at 8:30 am, Rosenallis 8:45 am, Mountmellick 9 am. Bus leaving Limerick at 5 pm. Seats must be booked before November 21 through Local Link office 057-869-2168. Cost adults/FTP/over 16 - €5 return, under 16 - €3 return. BOTTLE BANK AT CENTRE Please do not leave bottles, cans and other items thrown around the bank. Please dispose of these items into the container. Other items are not to be left there. CCTV in operation on bottle banks. THANK YOU Castlecuffe NS thank you for supporting their recent clothes collection. It was very successful.

COLLECTION Clonaslee College Parents Association church gate collection is November 24/25. Your support is appreciated. HOLY CROSS Bus will travel on Thursday December 6 leaving at 6 pm. Please give your names to 087-212-2766. Cost is €15 return and €5 if you require tea and sandwiches. SOCIAL SERVICES BINGO Bingo is on Wednesdays from 2 – 4 pm in the Community Centre kitchen. We would love to see more come to this social event with a cuppa at break time. Please come along, all welcome. MUSIC LESSONS Clonaslee Comhaltas Branch music lessons are on Thursday from 5:30 pm in the Community Centre. For more information contact John 085-285-1772 or Elaine 087-236-2723 or clonasleecce14@gmail.com AUTUMN SCHEDULE Classes at An Sean Chistin, Irey, Ballyfin as follows: Monday Set Dancing at 8 pm. Tuesday Line Dancing at 11 am. Wednesday Line Dancing at 8 pm. Further details Maureen 087-648-2038.

PARISH HALL All bookings for the Parish Hall must be made, prior to use, by contacting John 083-471-2546. CHURCH GATE COLLECTION All groups, organisations, clubs please advise the parish office on 864-8030 two weeks in advance if you holding a church gate collection. MOUNTMELLICK LIBRARY Kilbride Art group are exhibiting for the month of November, drop in to view the art, some are for sale at an affordable price. Upcoming talks for parents in Mountmellick Library: Tuesday November 27 from 7:30-8:30 pm: Raising Competent Teenagers with Positive Parenting. Baby Book Club is on Tuesdays at 10.30 am. Would you like to introduce your baby or young child to books and the love of reading? Baby Book Club is for babies from 0 – 3 years and their parents and siblings. Socialise with other children and babies, listen to rhymes, sing along and pick up reading tips. The Junior Chess Club is back Saturdays from 10.30 a.m. for ages 7 – 13 years. Basic knowledge required.

COMMUNITY ALERT AGM Tthe Woodenbridge District Community Alert AGM takes place on Wednesday, Dec 12 at 8.30pm in Newtown Mill. CCTV is planned at five locations in the area for which funds have been raised. For this project all relative paperwork has been completed, Planning permission has been granted along with Joint Policing Committee support. However, the issue of Data Controller remains unresolved. Public Representatives, Laois Co. Co officials, Gardai have been invited to attend in the hope that a clearer picture can be obtained as to the future of the project. Community groups with similar problems will also be invited. A B C CLUB A B C Club held a meeting in Clough hall on Wednesday November 7th their was a good attendance .A Vote of sympathy was passed with Sheila Coonan on the Death of her Mother Kathlee Bolger Cannonswood .Member filled boxes fot the Christmas Shoe box appeal Thanks to everyone who brought items for the boxes TIDY TOWN LOTTO Jackpot of €2800 was not won on Monday November 5th Numbers drawn were 9 20 22 27 Winners of €25 were Margaret Hanlon Aghaboe Betty Ryan Ballacolla Evelyn Martin Ballacolla Liz Hyland Aghaboe Cassin Family Ballygeehan .Jackpot for Monday November 12th will €3000 tickets on sale in Hawthorn Glanbia and from Committie members COMMUNITY 34 MONASTEREVIN E-mail: news@leinsterexpress.ie MEETING Important Meeting. Kildare County Council invite you to Monasterevin Community Centre on Wednesday 14 November from 3pm to 8pm. Have your say.

Come and meet the design team appointed to prepare plans for the future of your town. It is important that community groups, residents Associations, families and individuals come to this important meeting as information from meeting will be used by Kildare County Council to apply for grants for the town. ROAD CLOSURE Temporary Closure of road. The road from Monasterevin to Athy R417 will close temporarily at the Old Cush Inn Site to facilitate work being carried out by Gas Network Ireland. Closure will be from 8am on Wednesday 21 November to 6pm on Tuesday 27 November Diversionary route will be signposted .

NIGHT MARKET A First for Monasterevin. A Night Market combined with a Bake night will be held in Community Centre on Thursday 22 November from 6.30 to 9.30pm. People's Market are hosting their 3rd Annual Bake Night with Cake tasting, pudding and other bake samples. You can place your Christmas order for your cake, pudding and other delicious home baking, all are made from natural ingredients, no artificial additives. A Night Market will also be held on the same night with over 20 stalls/tables offering a wide range of handcrafts, products on display Collection of orders will be at the Market on 16 December.

This will be a night not to be missed. More details later on this market. MASS Mass of Remembrance in St Peter & Pauls Church will be on 17 and 18 November. Light a candle at 6.30pm Saturday 9am and 11.30am Sunday . A Service of Remembrance will take place in St Evins Cemetery on Sunday 18 November at 3pm. MONASTEREVIN AFC Fund raising Hunt will take place on Sunday 25 November An Auction and raffle will be held after the Hunt. Items for auction are needed. Further details later. DO YOU HAVE COMMUNITY NEWS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE HERE? Please contact 057 86 21666 or email: news@leinsterexpress.ie Remembrance concert in Portlaoise Enjoying themselves at the Remembering War 2014 Concert in St Peter & Paul's Church, Portlaoise PICTURE: ALF HARVEY

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie AROUND THE COUNTY STRADBALLY/GRAIGUECULLEN-KILLESHIN STRADBALLY YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT PAT KEARNS E-mail: patkearns123@gmail.com TOP 3 A big congratulations to Majella Fennelly (SVT Co-Ordinator), Stradbally, Vicarstown and Timahoe – who has made it to the top 3 (shortlisted by Volunteer Ireland) for a national award in the category of Volunteer Manager, for her work with the SVT Activity & Wellness Hub. Winners will be announced at a Gala Awards Ceremony in The Carlton Hotal,, Blanchardstown on December 7. Good luck and Majella and congratulations. ST COLMAN'S NS UPDATE St Colman's NS, Stradbally are formally starting their enrolments for September 2019. Please contact the office for a form.

Dr Diane Cooper and Ruth, nutritionist from True Fitness, gave a very informative talk on healthy lunchboxes, reading food labels and portion size...everything you need to know about childhood nutrition in the school on November 6 last. There was great feedback from parents who attended. Thanks to the Parents Committee for organising and SVT for lovely fruit bowls. TIMAHOE LADIES GAA Calling all girls born in 2001 and 2002 for the 2019 Laois Minor team. There will be 6 weeks of training/trials starting on Sunday, November 18 at 11.30am in Timahoe. If for any reason you are interested but cannot make it please contact Tom McKittrick 086-7845958.

CONGRATS GARRY A big congratulations to Garry Comerford, Kylebeg, Stradbally who has signed for Cork City FC. The 25 year old has spent the last two seasons with Waterford. WHIST DRIVE Next drive in St Patrick's Hall, Stradbally on Friday, November 16 at 8.30pm. DIABETES Diabetes Ireland – CODE involves a 2 hourly daily session on just 4 days with a small group of people where you will learn from one amother, ask questions etc in St Marys Hall, Stradbally on Tuesday, November 20 from 104am-1pm. To book, speak with your Practice Nurse or phone Sheila 01-8428118. SYMPATHY Deepest sympathy is extended to Phyllis Byrne, Woodview on the death of her brother John (Johnny) Kelly formerly of Kilberry, Athy and Churchview, Nurney, Co Kildare. His remains were interred in St Michael's New Cemetery, Athy on Tuesday.

TIMAHOE ICA Timahoe ICA Guild meeting on Wednesday, November 14 in the Community Hall at 8pm. TABLE QUIZ Table Quiz in aid of the special care baby unit in the Midland Regional Hospital in the Rock Inn, Portlaoise on Friday, November 23. The special care baby unit was established in 2002 and it provides vital care for babies (mostly premature), who need specialist support after birth. YOGA FOR ALL SVT Wellness & Activity Club – Join us on Tuesday nights from 7.30pm in the Timahoe GAA Club for Yoga Classes. Suitable for all levels and all ages. Children must be supervised by an adults. €6 per class.

FLOWER & GARDEN CLUB Stradbally Flower & Garden Club Christmas Dinner will be held on Friday, December 21 in Fiacri House, Roscrea. The cost is €55. Anyone wishing to travel please contact Breda at 086-8385182. CHRISTMAS EXPRESS Christmas Express will be held at the Woodland Railway, Stradbally on December 1 and 2 and 8 and 9. This feative season the enchantment of the North Pole is coming to life. Embark on a magical train ride, visit with Santa Claus and join mischievous elves on a journey through our winter wonderland. As well as an unforgettable train journey, every child will get to meet with Santa and receive a wrapped present, a delicious cookie and some yummy hot chocolate.

CHRISTMAS CRAFT FAIR Christmas Craft Fair will be held in the Napper Tandy's, Stradbally on Saturday, November 24 from 11am-7pm. Over 25 stalls, music on the night. Huge selection, christmas wreaths, knitting frames, christmas hampers decorations. Sample the tastes home baking, mulled wine, hot chocolate, chocolate fountains. Santa arriving at 3.30pm. A great day out for all the family. GOLF OUTING Stradbally GAA annual golf outing on Friday, November 16. Contact Billy Delaney to book. PILGRIMAGE TO FATIMA Pilgrimage to Fatima 20-27 June 2019. 7 nights €759 per person sharing. Paid before December 14 €100 off. More details in the porches of all 3 churches. Contact M O'Brien, 8661601 / 086 3344722.

ART CLASSES Art Classes in St Mary's Hall, Stradbally if you are interested. Time to be arranged. Phone 087-2596129. COMMUNITY A WARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 in the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise on Tuesday, November 20. Up to 250 people due to attend. 22 individuals shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories. Zombies in Vicarstown James Crean, Cody Lynch and Jack Loughman at the SVT Sports Hub Zombie Beat the Barge Run PICTURE: LUKE WYNNE GRAIGUECULLEN /KILLESHIN E-mail: news@leinsterexpress.ie AWARD CEREMONY Invitation to the Diocese of Kildare and Leighlin Pope John Paul II Award Ceremony WEDNESDAY, 14TH NOVEMBER 2018 @7:30PM in St. Clare’s Church CHURCH The Mass of the Faithful Departed who Parishioners would like prayed for during November can be handed into the parish office or placed in the November Sacred Space which will contain candles for all our Parishioners who died during the past year. These candles will be lit at Mass each Sunday & will be presented to the families at our Annual Bereavement Mass on Friday 30th Nov at 7.30pm. EVERGREENS CHRISTMAS GRAIGUECULLEN/KILLESHIN PARISH EVERGREENS CHRISTMAS DINNER in The Talbot Hotel on Sunday 9th Dec 2018 @ 1pm sharp. Tickets available from the Swimming Pool Office from Monday 12th - Friday 16th November. BINGO Graiguecullen Bingo Tues 13th Nov @ 8.30pm in St Fiacc’s Hall Jackpot €1,740 in 48 No’s. Check on Double No & win €530 In-house Mini Lotto €1,100 Great Prizes to be won. FOOD KITCHEN St. Clare’s Hospitality Food Kitchen will open for dinner on Christmas Day. We hope to make this a very special day for our clients. To raise funds to cover our costs we are having a coffee morning and bric a brac sale in early December. We would greatly appreciate any unwanted gifts you might have and these can be left into Graiguecullen Parish Centre. Thank you for your support.

VOLUNTEERS St Clare’s Hospitality are looking for volunteers for their Annual Bag Pack in Dunnes Stores which will take place on the 29th/30th November & 1st December (Thursday/Friday/Saturday). If you have an hour or two to spare please give your name to The Parish Centre 0599141888. OPEN DAY Carlow College, St Patrick’s will hold its annual open day on Thursday next 15th November from 12-4pm & 5-7pm. Meet our students and staff, explore the campus and learn more about our degree programmes. We'll have short taster lecture on a variety of subjects.

www.carlowcollege.ie. BASKETS NEEDED Killeshin NS Parents Association urgently require baskets for Christmas hampers. These can be left into the school or give them to any committee member. GAA AUCTION Killeshin GAA Annual Auction will take place on Sunday 25th November. All donations welcome - contact 0852109353/0872496115/0879563831 and we can arrange collection for large items CHARITY TEA A Charity Afternoon Tea & Raffle hosted by Tricia Lowry will take place in Graiguecullen Parish Centre on Sunday 18th November 2-5pm. Cost €8 per person. All welcome and your support would be greatly appreciated. FIACC'S HOUSE Friends of Fiacc's House are holding a Christmas Extravaganza on Friday 23rd November at 7 p.m. in The Activity Centre, St. Fiacc's House. Tickets are €10. Refreshments will be provided. Also, music, cookery demonstration, flower arranging, Colour me beautiful, fashion show plus stands from demonstrators. If you would like to book a stand for €15 or buy a ticket please contact Margo on 086 3981213. The cards for the Friends of Fiacc's House Annual Draw are now available at Fiacc's House. New promoters are welcome. The draw will take place on Monday 10th December at 9pm.

CANCER SUPPORT The Eist Cancer Support Centre, Mill Lane, Carlow, annual Ecumenical Service of Remembrance on Tuesday 13th November at 8pm. OISIN HOUSE Oisin House AGM November 28th 8.30pm. All welcome including past and present members. Nominations for a new committee required. BRIDGE If you like the game of Bridge and are free to play on a Tuesday or Wednesday nights in Carlow Town, you would be very welcome to come and join these clubs. Contact 087 9964839 KNITTING & CROCHET Classes in The Sacred Heart Hall in Graiguecullen every Wed evening from 7-9pm with Tea @ 8pm. Wool is supplied, hats, scarfs & mitts are donated to the homeless. Just bring a pair of needles or a crochet hook. Contact Edwina on 085/7310553.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie AROUND THE COUNTY MOUNTRATH/BALLYFIN/CRETTYARD/CASTLETOWN/ERRILL MOUNTRATH/ BALLYFIN YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT ANNE-MARIE PHELAN E-mail: mountrathnotes@outlook.ie GUIDE DOGS Irish Guide Dogs for the Blindr Christmas cards and 2019 calenders are now available, your support is as always very much appreciated. Ring Sean on 087 7676318. CHRISTMAS PARTY Ballyfin Parish Council and Community Alert will host the annual Christmas Party on Sunday, December 9, in Mountrath Golf Club. Invitations will be issued in next few weeks.

COMMUNITY ALERT Ballyfin Community alert renewal of Text Alert Registration will take place on Saturday, November 17, at 8.45 pm and Sunday, November 18, at 10.45 am in the Community Hall. Fee €20 per mobile phone registered. Registration forms are also available in the Deadmans from Ger and June Whelan. GAA LOTTO Mountrath lotto draw results for November 5. Numbers drawn: 14 19 24 28. No jackpot winner. €20 winners: Ken Holmes, Peter Middleton, Sarah, Aoife & Tadgh Burke, Mag Cambell, Michelle Cuddy, Caroline Moore, Jack & Ryan Cuddy and Bernie Vaughan. House prize: Heather Mortimer. Promoters prize: Davy Tobin and Martin Phelan. Next weeks jackpot €6,400. Venue 'Toms'. CHRISTMAS BINGO Monster Christmas Bingo with €5,000 prize money, on Sunday 25th November in Mountrath Community School at 3.00p.m. Double book €15, Single book €10, Single sheet €2. Big raffle with all cash prizes. Lots of spot prizes on the day. All welcome. HERITAGE LAUNCH The Pike of Rushall Heritage Group wishes to announce the launch of its book – Pike of Rushall Historical Review – on the 14th of December, in the ICA Hall, Castletown at 8 p.m. Michael Parsons, Chairman of the Heritage Council will be attending the launch. The book contains many articles on local events and characters, and important people from the area who left their mark in history and much more. Refreshments will be available after the launch. All are welcome. Batt Lynch (Chairman – Pike of Rushall Heritage Group) SCOR NA NOG Scor na nOg in St. Fintan's Hall, Mountrath on Friday, November 23. Registration at 6.30p.m.

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Mountrath Christmas Lights present Rock and Roll Bingo, with DJ Noel Brennan! Saturday, November 17, in Sox's Bar at 9.30pm. Your support would be greatly appreciated. TRUMERA COMMUNITY Trumera Community Hall now taking bookings from groups or individuals for use of the hall for all sports activities, meetings, birthday parties and any other events. Doesn’t matter if it’s for an hour or five, day or night. Don’t let the weather ruin your plans…..Check with us now for availability. Contact John for more info on 087 9911517. COMMUNITY AWARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel on Tuesday, November 20. It total 22 individuals are shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories. Sure to be a big night for all. The Leinster Express is support this years awards which are organised by the Laois Public Participation Network at Laois County Council.

CRETTYARD GAA LOTTO Last week's winners in the Crettyard Footballers Lotto were Eadaoin Brennan, Monavea, Ava & Ciara, c/o John Whelan, Michael Loughlin c/o Crettyard PO, Brendan Delaney, Park, Ratheniska. The winning numbers were 6-17-20-28. SET DANCING Classes in Set Dancing are held in Behans of Tolerton on Thursday evenings commencing at 8.30 pm sharp. All are welcome. Cost is just €5 including refreshments. No partner needed. LINE DANCING Line Dancing is held in Newtown School on Mondays at 7.30 pm.

LADIES CLUB The Senior Citizens Party is being held in the Talbot Hotel, Carlow on Sunday 2nd December. The club are organising a weekend away from 23rd November to 25th in the Amber Springs Hotel, Gorey, Co Wexford. Cost is €200 which includes Bed and Breakfast and 2 Evening Meals. The cost of a single room is €265. HANDBALL No winner of the jackpot in the combined clubs lotto draw held on 1st November. Local winner of €20 was Eileen Brennan, Garrendenny. The winning numbers were 17-24-26-31. Thanks to everyone for their support. COMMJUNITY ALERT Mayo Doonane Community Alrt Seniors Alert Scheme: Anyone over 65 years who wishes to avail of the alarm can get an application form from Paddy Purcell 086 0815390 or Martin Doyle 087 2439599 or Ben Brennan 087 9613360. Anyone connected to the landline is free for the first year and afterwards it costs €60. Connection to the mobile costs €60 immediately. ST ABBANS ATHLETIC CLUB St Abban's AC tickets are available in the clubhouse for the club's annual fundraiser. There is €6500 in cash prizes. Couch to 5kmeach Monday & Wednesday evening at St Abbans Sports Complex, Monavea starts at 7.30 pm. Suitable for men & women of all ages and abilities. Bring a friend. Cost €2 per night. Anyone willing to help out with coachine - AAI have a new list of courses - hwww.athleticsireland.ie/ coaching/fixtures/ Training for anyone interested. Contact Catriona at the club. Coaches required.

COMMUNITY AWARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 in the Midlands Park Hotel on Tuesday, Nov 20. The Leinster Express is supporting this years awards organised by the Laois Public Participation Network at Laois County Council. CASTLETOWN E-mail: news@leinsterexpress.ie CASTLETOWN ICA Mass for deceased menbers and relatives on Wed, November 7 was said by Fr Hennessy, who welcomed Rev .Victor Fitzpatrick from Mountrath /Clonenagh parish. It was Rev Victor's first visit to the ICA hall where he joined with Fr Hennessy & the guild for refrehments after mass. Lucy welcomed & thanked him for coming & hopes we will meet him & his mother in near future. Sympathies: To Lucy & family on the recent death of her sister Nuala Reynolds; to the Mullaney/Luceys on Kathleen's passing. To the Doheny family on Ellen's death. To the Fitzgerald family on death of Brendan's mother. To the Russell & Percy Phelan families on their bereavements. We remembered Josie Coss & Coss family tonight; Betty o Gorman read her memory card. Also, we pray for Mary Keenan & wish her improved health from all ladies. Our annual Christmas dinner is in Eddie Phelan's on Tuesday December,18 at 7pm. Tickets on sale from any member for annual draw. Great prizes , so buy a line. Bus to RDS knit & stitch on Thurs, November 8. Craft day in Castletiwn ICA hall on Saturday, November 10 at 930am.

Any members or friends who have warm coats knitted caps /scarves & toiletries ie.soap, toothpaste, sanitary wear, also chocolate, crisps - can you donate to us by December 6 as PATH (a voluntary organisation in Portlaois ) urgently need items for homeless people in Dublin whom they call on every Saturday night. Please donate items to an ICA member. Federation meeting in Ballylinan hall Sunday, November 25th at 2.30pm. Pike of Rushall have their 200 - year book launch Friday, December 14 in ICA hall. Thanks from senior citizens committee to ica for generous donation to recent party Nicest teapot competition winners: Ann Fitzpatrick, Betty Gorman, Maura Phelan.

COMMUNITY CENTRE AGM The Castletown Community Centre Community Annual General Meeting takes place on Thursday November 22 at a time to be decided. All members of the Castletown with an interest in promoting the centre and helping in its further development are invited to attend. The centre is still available for bookings. Email castletowncc@gmail.com or phone or text 089 706 7709 to enquire or make a booking. ERRILL YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT MARY NOLAN E-mail:errillnotes@gmail.com LAT JOSEPH (LAR) FINN Condolences to the family of the late Joseph Lar Finn, Clonmeen, Errill who died on November 4, peacefully, at Portlaoise hospital. Mourned by his wife Ann and his family, Mary, Michael, Matt and Rosie, John and Grainne, Eileen brother Tom, extended family, relatives and friends. Reposed at home. Funeral Mass in The Church Of Our Lady, Queen Of The Universe, Erril. Burial in Rathdowney local cemetery. ERRILL GAA LOTTO Jackpot not won. Nos: 3,7, 8, 29. Two match 3 tickets won €50 each - Anna Wynne, Lisduff, Mick Ryan, Lyrogue. Next jackpot €2,150. Tickets in Errill Post Office, Dowling's Bar, Ray's Bar and promoters. ERRILL DRAMA Errill Drama Group present the play "Wedding Fever" by Sam Cree in St. Bernadette's Hall for three nights this week on November 16th, 17th and 18th (Friday to Sunday) . It will no doubt provide a great night's entertainment. Curtain up each night at 8.30 pm. TOMMY FLEMING CONCERT Tickets are still available for the annual Christmas Concert in Our Lady, Queen of The Universe Church, Rathdowney. The concert this year takes place on 7th December and features Tommy Fleming. Tickets at €30 are available at the parish office on 0505 46282 DO YOU HAVE COMMUNITY NEWS YOU WOULD LIKE TO SEE HERE? Please contact 057 86 21666 or email: news@leinsterexpress.ie

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie AROUND THE COUNTY RATHDOWNEY/RAHEEN/BALLINAKILL/TIMAHOE RATHDOWNEY YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT ORLA MAHER E-mail: rathdowneynotes@gmail.com COMMUNITY WARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise on Tuesday, November 20. With an expected attendance of 250 people with 22 individuals shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories it is guaranteed to be a great night. The Leinster Express is delighted to support the event. GAA LOTTO There was no winner in this week’s jackpot which was €6,250. The numbers drawn were 14, 18, 19, 28. The 10 winners of €15 were Pat Joe Kavanagh, S. Quigley, Nancy Mahon, Margaret Bowe, Patrick Meehan, Sally Whelan, Alan Killeen, Noreen Whelan, Joe Fitzpatrick, Brendan Behan. Next week’s jackpot will be €6,400. Tickets can be purchased in all shops or from any local promoter.

CYMS The club is now opened on Friday night from 7pm onwards. The club will be running a snooker tournament for Christmas and anyone who is interested in playing are asked to contact Tony at 087 7146867 as soon as possible. IRISH CLASSES For adults in spoken Irish will recommence for a six week period starting in November. All levels catered for from beginner to Cómhrá. Venues are Scoil Bhríde Rathdowney on Mondays at 7pm starting November 5, contact (0505) 46546. Gaelscoil Ballaghmore on Tuesdays @ 7 pm starting November 6, contact (0505) 41810. All classes are free of charge, contact above numbers for further details. DANCE CLASSES Social dance classes commence in St. Mary’s Hall Johnstown on Wednesday’s, at 8pm. Dances include jive, quick step, oldtime waltz, fox trot and line dancing. You don’t need a partner, just come along and bring your friends. For further information phone 086 8825200.

CONCERT Tickets for Tommy Fleming on sale in the Parish Office at €30. Concert on Friday December 7, for more details contact the Parish Office on 0505 46282. SOCIAL DANCE Classes for beginners will resume in St. Bernadette’s Hall, Errill on Tuesdays at 8pm. Details if required from Mary on 087 9249633. ERRILL DRAMA Errill Drama Group are rehearsing for their next production on November 16th, 17th and 18th (Friday to Sunday) The play "Wedding Fever" by Sam Cree will no doubt provide a great night's entertainment.

SHEILA RAFTER Condolences to the family of the late Sehila Rafter Cuan Bhrìde formerly Clonmeen, Rathdowney who died on November 2 peacefully in the care of Patterson's nursing home Roscrea. Sadly mourned by her by her sister Irene, brother Jim, extended family, relatives,friends. Reposed at O' Sullivan's Funeral Home. Removal to The Church of The Holy Trinity, Rathdowney. Funeral Mass on Sunday at 1pm followed by burial in Rathdowney Local Cemetery. BINGO A great Bingo is held every Tuesday Night at 8.30 in the Rathdowney Community Centre. Your support would be greatly appreciated. Bingo is run by the Community Centre Group.

RATHDOWNEY NOTES If you wish to put a note in the Leister Express please leave it into the Card Stand by Thursday at 5pm. Thumbs up for the Knowles family Anthony Knowles from Ballyroan with his €57,000 winnings that included a car on last the National Lottery Winning Streak Game Show on RTÉ PICTURE: MAC INNES PHOTOGRAPHY TIMAHOE YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT ROGHAN HEADEN E-mail: roghanheaden@gmail.com GAA Timahoe GAA Club he Agm of the club is on Saturday the 1st of December at 7.30pm. This is the most important meeting of the year for the club and all are asked to attend and voice their opinions. Club membership is due also on the night. All are welcome to come along and join the local GAA Club.

TIGH MOCHUA LE CHÉILE Plans are moving along for to mark the 1100th anniversary of a Viking Raid in Timahoe next year, grant aid is to be sourced. Thanks to everyone for helping to maintain the cleanniess of the Village. HERITAGE CENTRE Will be closed for a number of days a week for the period, but as always is open upon prior contact been made. SCHOOL A big thanks to all who helped move the furniture from the hall to the new build last Sunday morning after mass. Your assistance was appreciated. CHRISTMAS LIGHTS The lights will be installed shortly, which a few new additions. An official switch on will be arranged.

WORLD WAR I With the 100th year commemorative celebrations taking place recently, it is important to remember all those from the area who part took in the great war. Their sacrifice cannot be forgotten. FACEBOOK TIMAHOE There is a dedicated Timahoe village Facebook, which shares photos and stories of Timahoe. If your on Facebook please join as it's a good way to reflect on the past with newspaper clippings and photography. COMMUNITY WARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise on Tuesday, November 20.

With an expected attendance of 250 people with 22 individuals shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories it is guaranteed to be a great night. The Leinster Express is delighted to support the event. BALLINAKILL SPINK YOUR LOCAL CORRESPONDENT ANNE DRURY E-mail: ballinakillnotes@yahoo.com PARISH LOTTO. Nos: 8,9,12,23. No winner. €20 each to Alice Walsh, Alice Kennedy, Catherine Phelan, Sean Whelan, Joan Mc Grath, Jimmy Delaney, Marie Mc Wey, Tom Knowles, John Fitzpatrick, Julia Headen. Next jackpot €3,200.

LADIES FOOTBALL Best wishes to local girl, Sarah McEvoy from Spink who lines out next weekend for Dunedin Connollys from Edinburgh in an All Ireland Intermediate Club Semi-final against the Ulster Champions Emmett Og from Monaghan. Having already won the British championship and beaten the Munster champions Na Gaeil from Kerry in an All Ireland Quarter Final, hopes are high that this team can go all the way to an All Ireland final. Sarah plays at No .3 for Connollys and has featured on many teams here in Laois from Knock NS, Heywood Community School, Crettyard and Laois Ladies underage up to Senior level. Sarah is also Secretary of Connollys club and she works with Diaego all over Scotland. The game is fixed for a Monaghan venue. CREDIT UNION People First Credit Union will hold a meeting in the Old School community hall on Thursday the 15th of November at 8pm to discuss reopening the Ballinakill Credit Union. Services offered if required will be, shares saving account, current account access for receipt of wages, pensions or social welfare payments, pay zone machine for payment of household bills, loan application forms, online banking application forms, credit union information brochures, credit union 3rd year bursary application forms, sponsorship application forms and coming in 2019 multipurpose current account with debit card.

BALLINAKILL BINGO Ballinakill Bingo Committee would like to appeal for more local support to ensure bingo continues in the village. Single books with flyers cost €8 and double books with flyers cost €16. Our jackpot game is €150. Come and try your luck. SPINK KNITTING GROUP. Spink Knitting Group meet in Headens lounge every Thursday morning from 10.30am until 12.30pm. New members always welcome. CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Ballinakill Christmas lights festival committee are delighted to announce that the festival will be held on Sunday the 9th of December in the market square from 5.30pm until 7.30pm and after last years great success we hope this year will be even bigger and better so if you want to have a stall on the day please contact Eamon Delaney on 087 224 2027 or Sharon Drennan on 086 345 8540, there will also be Carol singing, entertainment for Children and face painting. There will be a raffle on the night for a monster hamper. Closing date is the 30th of November. Thanks to everyone that supported us last year, spread the word and we hope to see everyone again this year.

PARISH FUNDRAISER Ballinakill parish pastoral council are proud to present Michael English in concert in St Brigids Church on Sunday, February 24. Tickets are on sale now from any member of the parish council. Tickets cost €25 each and doors open at 7pm. A perfect Christmas present for any Michael fan. There will also be a raffle on the night. Please support. COMMUNITY WARDS Laois Community & Voluntary Awards 2018 take place in the Midlands Park Hotel, Portlaoise on Tuesday, November 20. With an expected attendance of 250 people with 22 individuals shortlised for Unsung Hero and 38 groups in various categories it is guaranteed to be a great night.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie EXPRESS SCHOOLS Local schools who would like to feature in this section are very welcome to contact us e lynda.kiernan@leinsterexpress.ie t 057 86 21666 HALLOWEEN PARTY AT SCOIL MHUIRE ABBEYLEIX Halloween fancy dress winners from the Scoil Mhuie Abbeyleix Junior end of the school Junior Infants keep getting cuter, Lucy and Saoirse Holly plays a haunting tune in Scoil Mhuire NS Abbeyleix The Aylwards are Hellward bound Mother Nature visiting Lucy, Emily and Cian added a splash of colour to proceedings A happy group from Scoil Mhuire dress up for Halloween Sarah hit all the right notes with her costume Amy looked just purrfect

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie FarmingNews www.leinsterexpress.ie Joe Burke, Bord Bia, Liam Brophy, Portlaoise, Beef Stockjudging Senior Section National Winner, Graham Grothier and James Healy, Macra President at the National Conference Contentious issues remain at TB forum ICSA Animal Health and Welfare chairman Hugh Farrell has said that contentious issues remain as theTBForumcontinuestodebate DAFM proposals to reform the TB EradicationProgramme. Commenting on developments so far Mr Farrell said, “We have received assurances from the Department thatatargetofsevendaysisnowin place for the removal of reactor cattle. A streamlining of this process is welcome as any delay can exacerbate the potential for furtherspreadofthedisease.” ICSA is continuing to push for compensation levels that adequately reflect the impact of the loss of the animal/animals to thefarmingenterprise.

“When it comes to breeding stock there has to be flexibility in thesystemtoallowvaluersgivean honest and true assessment of whatananimalisworth. “The value of top quality suckler and dairy cows, show calibre stock and pedigree animals cannot be ascertained by lookingataveragemartprices. Breedinganimalscanbeworth severalhundredeurosinexcessof the typical price given. ICSA has also voiced concerns that undue pressureisbeingputonvaluersto avoid giving the real value of high calibrecoworheifer. Macra President James Healy at Know Your Ag Quiz are All Ireland winners Portlaoise; Adrian Seale, Paddy Delaney, Liam Brophy and Thomas Cushen Teagasc Options for Farm Families programme EXPRESS REPORTER news@leinsterexpress.ie In 2017 according to the Teagasc National Farm Survey, the average national family farm income including direct payments was just over €31,400, however cattle and sheep enterprises averaged less than€20,000.

Following a challenging year such as 2018 has proved to be, now may be the time to consider something different. The Teagasc Options for Farm Families Programme aims to give individuals a good understanding of how to turn an idea into a viable business. Through a series of workshops, the programme provides information on supports available to mentor individuals with a diversification business idea and help in the completion of abusinessplan. The workshops also provide networking opportunities, to introduce individuals to other agencies/parties who may be able to offer tangible assistance for their specific project.

Teagasc Portlaoise will be running an Options Workshop for four consecutive Wednesday nights, beginning on 14th Novemberat7pm. The location will be the Teagasc office in Portlaoise (R32 CF21) and attendance is free, although advance bookingisessential. Speakers will include the LocalEnterpriseOffice(LEO) discussing issues such as training, the LEO mentoring programme and preparing a business plan; Laois Partnership outlining relevant grant funding available to new enterprises and a number of agri-based entrepreneurs in the areas of rural tourism, artisan-food production as well as diversification into organic farming, contract rearing andforestry.

These individuals will all have successfully diversified their traditional farming enterprise into an established business that adds value to their product and will share their experiences on the various nights. For further details or to book into the workshop, contact the Portlaoise office 057-8621326. LaoisMacranaFeirmeare holding a photo exhibition this Friday 16th November in MountmellickMacrahall. This idea came from Laois Macra PRO Niamh Ryan who wanted to promote both LaoisMacraandfarming. “Everyone has a phone and we all send snaps to each other so I wanted to get people sharing their farming pictures.

“The competition got people sharing their photos on Facebook and there was a great bit of excitement near theendofeachmonthgetting the last few likes on their pictures. “I’m so happy with the turnout of photos each month and would like to thank everyone who entered a photo and of course to our amazingsponsors. “Big thanks to Mountmellick photography Club for the use of their display boards and to Mountmellick Macra for the useoftheirhall.” “Thephotosondisplayare a years’ worth of monthly competitions on Facebook with a different theme for eachmonth.

“Entries were taken by private mail to the Laois Macra page up to the 20th of eachmonthwiththealbumof entries posted to the page for people to vote for their favourite until the end of the month. “Each of the 12 month winners win a morning photography lesson with photographerAlfHarvey. “On the night, our main sponsor Atkins Farm MachineryBirrwillselectthe overallwinner. “The winner will get a 2 night BnB stay in the 5 star CastlemarytrhotelinCork. “Our second prize sponsored by AgriSpec Rathdowney is a €75 voucher. Everyone is welcome to attend the night starting at 8pmwithlightrefreshments. LaoisMacrawouldalsoliketo thank MW Hire Urlingford and B.Fergus Photo Portlaoise for sponsoring the eventalso.

“We look forward to what will be a great night celebrating everything farmingandMacra.” Laois Macra photo to hold exhibition Have you got a view on what you’ve read here? Share your opinion with Express readers by writing to the editor. Please email news@ leinsterexpress.ie or write to The Editor, Leinster OVER TO YOU

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie The real Titanic story to set sail in local musical P ortlaoise Musical Society's 20-year voyage entertaining local people set sail for another year at the Dunamaise Arts Centre with the recent launch of its 2018 epic production of Titanic - the Musical. Based on real people aboard the world’s most legendary ship, this stunning and stirring story is focused on the hopes, dreams and aspirationsofthepassengers, as they face one of the most tragic disasters of the 20th Century.

Chairperson of Portlaoise Musical Society, Sharon Dunphy has been involved in all20yearsofproductions. “I am thrilled because it hasjustgonefromstrengthto strength each year you can see it getting bigger and better, the community supports it, joining it and the younger generation is startingtogetinvolvedwhich is great you can see them on stage they are feeling it the way we felt it and they love it asmuchaswedo. “Each year has been different. Our first year was Oklahoma, a classic, and a great year to start off it’s an oldie but everyone knows it, upthroughtheyearswedone BeautyandtheBeastthatwas another all rounder as well, AllShookUpwouldhavebeen all Elvis, Jesus Christ Superstar about Jesus’s final days so we have had a lot of different shows over the 20 years,”shesaid. Sharon added that it is the local involvement, support and sponsorship that keeps theshowontheroad.

“From committee level downtovolunteersespecially the support from the town, surrounding areas and sponsorship because it does cost an awful lot to put on a show and without their support you couldn't sustain it. In fairness to Portlaoise people they are a great support for local arts. We rehearsal Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. We are nearly there and enjoying it now, there is a cast of 64 and 12 children-thebiggestyear. It is a lot of commitment but it is worth it at the end, that week we have on stage at the end we just love it,” she said.

Sharon explained how this isn't the classic story of Jack and Rose on the Titanic butitistherealityandsureto pullattheheartstrings. “It is big, there isn’t a Jack and Rose, there isn’t a ‘Heart Will Go On’, it’s actually he true story of the final week of Titanic the final few days and the people on stage that we are representing are the real people that were on the Titanic when it set sail so you are seeing what happened. People done their homework andmadeamusicaloutofit. The music is powerful it will get the heartstrings. Will she sink on stage? We have part of a ship on stage and we are putting the finishing touches on that. We have it nailed down but we are polishing everything,” she said.

PRO of Portlaoise Musical Society and cast member Sean O'Neill said it can cost between €45,000 and €55,000 to put on a show of thismagnitude. “Through fundraisers, ticket sales and through the local people who sponsor the show year in year out - if it wasn'tforthemitwouldn'tbe possible. “It is totally different to last year when we done Rock of Ages this is a lot more serious and because it is Titanic everyone knows it and it is sad in parts and we would like to try and get the emotionofwhatwentononto thestage.

“Everyone knows the story of Titanic, there is no JackandRosethereisreallife people and real love stories. It’s the real take on Titanic there is no made up bits in this,itlooksatthestoryofthe crew, the first class, second class, third class. Normally in musicals there’s one or two thataretheleadsintheshow- therearenoleadsinthisshow there’s over 30 named parts intheshow,”hesaid. All 76 cast members including children volunteers their time and take part for the love of the show and the enjoyment they get out of the week. The show runs from Saturday, November 24 to Saturday December1attheDunamaise ArtsCentre.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Positive affirmations to raise self est L ow self esteem can hit us all from time to time, because we can all feel bad about ourselves occasionally. Feelings of low self-esteem may be triggered by being treated poorly by someone else recently or in the past, or by a person’s own judgments of him or herself. This is normal. However,inmyviewlow self-esteemisaconstant companionfortoomanypeople, especiallythosewhoexperience depression,anxiety,phobias, thinking,orwhohaveanillnessor adisability.

Theydescribewaysyouwould liketofeelaboutyourselfallthe time. LAOIS LIFE 42 Laois Heritage Society will launch the ninth edition of their Journal in the Portlaoise Parish Centre, on Friday, November 23 at 7.30pm. Minister for Justice and Equality, Charlie Flanagan will perform the launch. All are welcometoattend. The latest journal is full of interestingarticlesonLaoishistory with contributions covering events of the past from all parts of the county from early Christian times uptorecenttimes. Among the articles is one on Mapping Maryborough before the Ordnance Survey by Arnold Horner, who has recently launched his exciting new book on Laois maps.

Diarmuid Wheeler gives us an account of a great Laoisman, Rory Og O’Moore, and his adventures duringElizabethantimes. Local historian, John Dunne, writes about the Cootes of Ballyfin, wartsandall. John Stocks Powell takes a fascinating look at some rare Laois souvenirswhileChrisBoothtellsof the close connection of the Book of LeinsterwithLaois. Appropriately in this Decade of Commemorations there is a look backonthe1918electioninLaoisby Regina McGinley and Seamus Dunne reveals a tragic family connectionwithWW1.

There are lots more to interest boththehistorybuffandthecasual reader. It will also made an ideal gift for Christmas. Meanwhile,ifgoodphotography is your forte, then The Dunamaise theatre is the place to be on Thursdaynight,November22. An exhibition of the photographic works of Portlaoise Camera Club members, Sean Wynne and Pat Ahearn, LRPS,and editedbyfellowclubmemberTerry Conroy will be launched there at 7.30pm. The exhibition, ‘The AB File, ‘features a study of Ballyfin poet Dr Arthur Broomfield alongside photos of several of his signed poems.

“It’s been two years in the making’ says Sean Wynne, ‘we travelled from Arthur’s homeplace in Ballyfin to Emo Court, Semple Stadium, Laois Adult Education Centre and Kilcock on a journey that would locate photos inspired byhispoetry.” BothSeanandPatarejustifiably proud of a vivid study that reaches into the landscape of the Midlands, thematerialfromwhichArthurhas createdmuchofhiswork. Both photographers take their work seriously - as the exhibition will testify – “but we really enjoyed theproject,wehadplentyoflaughs, poets and photographers aren’t alwayssolemnpeople,’admitsPat. “The exhibition is really about the vision and expertise of the photographers, I’m the mere subject of their focus,’ explains ArthurBroomfield.

“Of course, I feel honoured to be chosen by these two distinguished artists, for that is what they are. I see it as an interesting collaboration between two art forms. “I hope those who attend will likeit,”saidArthur. The exhibition will be launched by the distinguished international award winning photographer Seamus Costello FIPF. ASIFGP fromKilkenny. MC for the night is John Dunne, founder member of the Portlaoise CameraClub. The photographs, which have been hanging in the Dunamaise Theatre since November 1st will remaininsitutillDecember1.st Meanwhile, “Pike of Rushall Historical review” is the title of a new book which is due to be launchedonFriday,December14. The man behind the launch and chief organiser is Kerry native Batt Lynch.

The book will be launched inn Castletown ICA hall by Michael Parsons, Chairperson of the NationalHeritageCouncil. Thebookcontainsmanyarticles on local events and characters, and important people from the area who left their mark in history and muchmore. Refreshments will be available afterthelaunch. Allarewelcome. Positive affirmations are positive statements that you can make about yourself that make you feel better about yourself MENTAL HEALTH MATTERS DR EDDIE MURPHY Clinical Psychologist Heritage Journal and photography Pictured with replicants of garments made at Abbeyleix and wore on the Titanic w McGinley, Abbeyleix Heritage House PICTURE: DENIS BYRNE

teem Theymaynot,however,describe howyoufeelaboutyourselfright now. Thefollowingexamplesof affirmationswillhelpyou: Iamagoodperson Ifeelgoodaboutmyself Itakegoodcareofmyself. Ieatright,getplentyofexercise,do thingsIenjoy Ispendmytimewithpeoplewhoare nicetomeandmakemefeelgood aboutmyself Ideservetobealive Manypeoplelikeme Iamaveryspecial,unique,and valuableperson. Ideservetofeelgoodaboutmyself. Iamlovable Iamagoodfriend Iamworthy Makealistofyourown affirmations.Keepthislistina handyplace,likeyourpocketor purse. Having a pet dog has some huge benefits I ’m constantly telling Aidan that he needs to have more patience. I think I really need to practice what I preach though. Do you remember last week’s column when I wrote about possible getting a family dog? Yup, you guessed it, we now have one!To be honest I’m not sure if I ever would have come to a clear decision myself so I let impulse win out and Seamus the Bichon Frise has joined the Chambers family!

TheBichonFrise,thusfaranyway,isthe perfectbreedtohavewithyoungkidsaround. Theyaresoplacidandsopatient.Theyare highmaintenancethoughandneedtobe thoroughlybrushedeverydayandofcourse theyneedgroomingalot.Ilivewiththat though.Soourfamilyoffourisnowafamilyof fivewiththeboysoutnumberingthegirlsbut Ihavezeroplanstoaddtoitanytimesoon.In factI’dsaywearecompleteatthisstage. Untilnextweekfolks. Aidan and Seamus. Seamus has only been here a short time but there’s already some huge benefits to being a family that has a pet dog. The first thing I noticed is that the television isn’t on half as much as it used to be If you are organising a speaker or training for school, community, voluntary, sporting or work groups, call Dr Eddie on 087 1302899 or go to www.facebook.com/ dr.eddie.murphy.psychologist ✱ LAOIS LIFE 43 You can contact me on ruth@itsjustaphase.ie; Twitter - @_itsjustaphase_; Instagram - @itsjustaphaseblog, or you’ll find more of my musings at www.itsjustaphase.ie. ✱ IT’S JUST A PHASE RUTH CHAMBERS Those toddler and parenting dramas launch were J.J Tynan, Gina Rohan and Regina

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Mike Denver is star of The Show Country music giant Mike Denver leads a line-up of stars and celebrities lending their support to this year’s charity fundraiser extravaganza, ‘The Show’, at the BridgeHouseHotelinTullamore. Husband and wife team Kara and Anthony Kearns, proprietors of Kode and Guy Clothing who organise The Show each year, announcedtheBridgeHouseHotel onWednesday,November28asthe placetobe. Andmostimportantlyofall,the two charities selected to benefit from this year’s one-night festival of fashion and fun were named as Offaly Down Syndrome and the TullamoreOncologyUnit. “For us, The Show has always been about a way to try and support worthy local causes in some way that can make a real differencetothetroublestheyface in trying to keep doing all of the great work they’re involved in,” explainedAnthony.

“As much as the night itself is about the fashion, and the entertainment, and the celebrities,attheheartofitall–for all of us - is the fact that we’re all there on the night to help raise as much as we can. And this year we’re delighted that we’ll be doing that in support of Offaly Down Syndrome and Tullamore OncologyUnit.” And getting ready to swap the stage for the catwalk again this year, is Guy Clothing brand ambassador, and country music superstar, Mike Denver. And Mike will be just one of the very special guests playing their part on the night.

“There’ll be a bit of a country flavourtothenightwiththeQueen of Irish country Philomena Begley joining us too, and our own Olivia Douglas from Ferbane, who’s one of the most famous young artists onthescenetoday,”saidKara. “And I’m very happy – being a Kerrywomanmyself,ofcourse–to bring one of the best footballers who ever wore a Kerry jersey back to Tullamore again, and that’s Aidan O’ Mahony, who also won DancingWithTheStarsacoupleof yearsago.SoifhecanhandleCroke Parkandthedance-floor,weknow he’ll be grand on the catwalk again aswell,”laughedKara.

As if all of that wasn’t enough in itself, Kara and Anthony confirmedthatrugbylegendBrent Popewouldalsobemakinghisway to the Bridge House Hotel on November 28, where part of the evening’sentertainmentwillcome from trad troubadours Ruaile Bualie. Country: Night of music and fashion in aid of two local charities 65 Kitchen Choir set to rock 'n' roll Back due to phenomenal demand, The 65 Kitchen Choir return to Dunamaise Arts Centre stage this week with a fantastic line-up of music and song. This year, the choir, has put togetheracompletelynewshow. The performance is guaranteed to have you singing along and clappingyourhandsasthechoir belts out classic hits from across thedecades.

Songs you had forgotten about, chart toppers, one hit wonders,alldeliveredtoyouina way only The 65 Kitchen Choir can. This is truly a performance youcan’taffordtomiss. The 65 Kitchen Choir started out as friends and family members of guitar teacher, Caroline Smith, who got together to sing for a mass in Marian Avenue Portlaoise and then one in John’s Square. They take the name from the number on Caroline’s door, 65 Marian Avenue, and the fact that they practiceinthekitchenthere. Let the good times rock and roll with 65 Kitchen Choir, at the Dunamaise from Thursday, November 15 to Saturday, November17,nightlyat8pm. Ticketsarepriced€16. ARTS REPORTER ryan@leinsterexpress.ie Caroline Smith of 65 Kitchen Choir County music legend Mike Denver, who will be headlining The Show in Tullamore LAOIS LIFE 44 Port pupils are Legally Blonde Colaiste Iosagain, Portarlington is pleased to announce that rehearsalsareinfullswingforits next musical production, LegallyBlonde.

A fabulously fun award-winning musical based onthemovie,LegallyBlondeThe Musical follows the transformation of Elle Woods as she tackles stereotypes and scandal in pursuit of her dreams. Action-packedandexploding with memorable songs and dynamic dances, this musical is somuchfun,itshouldbeillegal. LegallyBlondeTheMusicalis perfect for school theatre, featuring a large ensemble and several big song-and-dance numbers. It is a very funny musical with fantastic songs along the way to help tell the story and create this hilarious story.

With over 150 students involved in the show and directed by Mr Conor Mitchell, Ms Emily Seery and Ms Laura Cahill this promises to be a ragingsuccess. It goes on stage on Wednesday to Friday, December 5-7,at7.30pm.Ticketsareonsale from the school reception at €10 each. The real deal: Reese Witherspoon in Legally Blonde Irish comedian of the year in Laois Charismatic and energetic musical comedian from Laois, Steve Bennett will be coming to Kavanaghs Comedy Club this weekend with his new show ‘EverythingisF*cked!’ Irish Comedian of the Year Winner Steve Bennett is the happiest man on the planet. But he’s been worn down by the sheer poopiness ofEarthandherpeople. Join Bennett on a magical journey through the scariest bits of modern living, find ways to cope with it all through songs, poems, and razor-sharp stand-up from one of Ireland’s finest comedictalents.

Fresh from a packed out run at Edinburgh Fringe Festival, Perth, Adelaide and Melbourne Comedy Festivals and every Irish festival and comedyshowyoucouldpoint astickat,ifyouhadastick. Steve Bennett ‘Everything is F*cked!’ comes to Kavanaghs this Friday November16at9.30pm. Laois funnyman, Steve Bennett Mosaic making workshop at local arts centre A mosaic making workshop for adults with Aidan Byrne takes place at the Dunamaise ArtsCentrethisSaturday,November17. Makeyourownpersonalisedmosaic(wall hangings, pot-stands, mirrors, key-racks, name plates, and more) through this therapeutic, intuitive, fun and fulfilling process, in a friendly and easy-going atmosphere.

Suitable for complete beginners and people with previous experience in mosaic and other crafts. Places are limited and materials are included. Further information from Aidan on 087 1375415. Facebook @MosaicsAtTheMill. Learn mosaic making skills this weekend STAGE LEFT

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie 'Water' way to celebrate 20 years Portlaoise Musical Society celebrate two decades of musicals thisyearastheypresenttheir20th anniversary show in the epic ‘Titanic: The Musical’ at Dunamaise Arts Centre Portlaoise fromNovember24toDecember1. Basedonrealpeopleaboardthe world’s most legendary ship, this stunning and stirring story is focused on the hopes, dreams and aspirations of the passengers, as they face one of the most tragic disastersofthe20thCentury. The 2018 AIMS award winners (Best Visual & Runner Up Best Technical), present one of their most ambitious and spectacular productions to date, featuring an amazing cast and crew from Laois andbeyond.

In August of this year, the society presented a 20th anniversarycelebrationconcertof the last two decades. Hosted by Annette Nugent, a long time member of Portlaoise Musical Society, past and present members of the musical society openedtheshowwithascenefrom the sensational ‘Rock of Ages’ and then pressed the rewind button to take the audience on a fantastic musical journey from 1999 when they presented their first production 'Oklahoma' to scenes from ‘Hot Mikado’, ‘Fiddler on the Roof’,‘BeautyandtheBeast’,‘Hello Dolly’ and an uproarious scene from‘Grease’tonamebutafew. An exclusive sneak preview from their forthcoming production of the epic story of ‘Titanic: The Musical’ was also performed by the full cast and a special guest appearance by The KillSingerswasalsoenjoyedbythe crowdofonlookers.

Chairperson of Portlaoise Musical Society, Sharon Dunphy said: “We are thrilled to be able to say we have enjoyed 20 amazing years and 19 productions to date. We are delighted to bring top qualityperformancestothepublic each year, through artistic excellence and imaginative programming - from our committees, casts and crews. We exist because we are passionate about musical theatre and to support the artistic and educational activities of our volunteer members and we recognise the immense commitment that each gives every year, without which we couldn’t exist. We can’t wait to bring our biggest and best production yet to the stage to celebrate our 20th anniversary.” The show runs Saturday November 24 to Saturday December 1, 8pm nightly (6pm on Sundayonly).

Performance: Portlaoise group presents Titanic - The Musical Tribute to the great Thin Lizzy AThinLizzytributelikenothing youhaveheardbeforewithaline up to die for, hallmarked for performing Thin Lizzy s classics with all the energy and enthusiasm of the original, Thin Az Lizzy come to the stage of Kavanaghs this Friday, November16. Band-leader Johnny ‘D’ Fox first heard Thin Lizzy’s music at the age of 15. From that moment on, he wanted to be Phil Lynott, This lead him to learn the bass guitar, by plucking the first four strings of an old acoustic guitar. Following Phil Lynott’s tragic passing on in January 1986, Johnny purchased every Thin Lizzyrecord.

Within a year, he had learned everysongandtaughthimselfall ofthebasstabs. 10yearslater,Johnnymetthe guitarist Paul Owens, Thin Az Lizzy was born. The band went on to tour all over Ireland, Britain, Germany and the Netherlands. Philomena Lynott herself stated that Thin Az Lizzy is the closest anyone has ever gotten to capturing the band’s soundandenergy. ARTS REPORTER ryan@leinsterexpress.ie Thin Az Lizzy on stage Conor Harris sights along this model of the Titanic at Portlaoise Musical Societies launch of their forthcoming production 'Titanic - The Musical' A Shortt quirky look at Irish life Following the sell-out successes of ‘The Hall’, ‘Selfie’ and ‘How’s Tings?’ and fresh from starring roles in the hit play ‘A Skull In Connemara’ and the film ‘The Belly of The Whale’, Ireland’s best loved comedian, Pat Shortt takes to the road with his latest quirky look at Irish life, and will be coming to Abbeyleix this weekend.

Featuring brand new material and sketches, Hey! is a rogue’s gallery of odd ball characters, bizarre situations and even a song or two. Pat promises a whole raft of new characters and also promises to get “down and dirty with the audience!” Hey! delivers a peculiar take on modern life that only the uniqueimaginationofPatShortt couldconjureup. Hey! You have been warned - ashownottobemissed. Hey! comes to the Abbeyleix Manor Hotel at 8pm on Friday, November16. Tickets are available now at thereceptiondeskatthehotelor onwww.ticketmaster.ie. Funnyman, Pat Shortt LAOIS LIFE 45 www.leinsterexpress.ie Express LEINSTER www.leinsterexpress.ie FOR THE LATEST LOCAL NEWS VISIT OUR WEBSITE. NEWS LOCAL

SWS FORESTRY Planting, Felling Licenses, Roading, Harvesting, Investment, Valuation & Sales. Contact Barry Roche on 0877376189 WAREHOUSE TO LET 10,000 sq ft., just off M9, Good access, available from 1st December. Call 086- 8169849 EARN EXTRA CASH National Association requires persons for part-time / full-time positions as part of our fund raising venture. Please phone Dave on 086-1046996 for details. WASHING MACHINE REPAIRS Covering the Laois area. Telephone George O'Brien on 057 8736644 or mobile 087 2544168 PATRICK MAHER masterdecorators.ie Painting, paper hanging, paint effects, spraying, or hand painting of fitted kitchens, 30 years experience. Phone 087 6922583 WASHING MACHINE REPAIRS Covering the Laois area. Telephone George O'Brien on 057 8736644 or mobile 087 2544168 Bord na Móna Powergen Limited intends to apply for retention permission for continued use of an existing guyed wind monitoring mast, with instruments, 100m in height on its lands at Esker More, Co. Offaly for a further period of three years. The purpose of the mast is to assess the suitability of the company’s adjacent lands for wind farm development. Previous planning application reference number: PL13/161. The planning applica- tion may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the rea- sonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public open- ing hours. A submission or observation in rela- tion to the application may be made in writing to the planning authori- ty on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the applica- tion.

OFFALY COUNTY COUNCIL I, Fiona Duignan, intend to apply for retention permission for development at this site, 36 Glenbrook, Ballyroan, Co. Laois. The development consists of the retention of the conversion of domestic attached garage to habitable space ancillary to dwelling and all associated works. The planning application may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public opening hours. A submission or observation in relation to the application may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application. Signed on behalf of the applicant by DalyHudson Building Surveying & Architecture www.dalyhudson.com 045-530766 LAOIS COUNTY COUNCIL OFFALY COUNTY COUNCIL I Dan Murphy intend to apply for permission for a development at Rathmore, Portarling- ton, Co Offaly. The development will con- sist of construction of a new bungalow style dwelling house, new entrance, new pack- aged wastewater treat- ment system and pol- ishing filter including associated site works. C/O AOCA Engineering Consultants, Lismard House, Timahoe Road, Portlaoise, Co Laois. 057-8663244.

The planning applica- tion may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the rea- sonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public open- ing hours. A submission or observation in rela- tion to the application may be made in writing to the planning authori- ty on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the applica- tion. OFFALY COUNTY COUNCIL We The Board of Man- agement Cloneyhurke National School intend to apply for permission for development at , Cloneyhurke National School, Benfield , Cloneyhurke . Portar- lington, Co Offaly R32FT51. The develop- ment will consist of the provision of a fifteen square metre prefabri- cated building to the south east of the exist- ing school for use as temporary additional accommodation includ- ing all associated site works.

C/O AOCA Engineering Consultants, Lismard House, Timahoe Road, Portlaoise, Co Laois. The planning applica- tion may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the rea- sonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public open- ing hours. A submission or observation in rela- tion to the application may be made in writing to the planning authori- ty on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the applica- tion.

OFFALY COUNTY COUNCIL We, Mark & Neasa Ozenbrook, intend to apply for permission for development at this site – Greenview, Gash, Cas- tletown, Co. Laois. The development will con- sist/consists of : Con- struction of a single sto- rey rear extension, demolition of existing two storey rear exten- sion, internal alterations & all associated site works. The Planning Application may be inspected/purchased, at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of mak- ing a copy, at the offices of the planning authori- ty during its public opening hours. A sub- mission or observation in relation to the appli- cation may be made in writing to the planning authority on payment of the prescribed fee, €20, within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the application, and such submissions or observa- tions will be considered by the planning author- ity in making a decision on the application. The planning authority may grant permission sub- ject to or without con- ditions, or may refuse to grant permission.

LAOIS COUNTY COUNCIL We, Declan and Aoife Carthy, are applying for permission for dormer style dwelling house, septic tank and percolation system, entrance, garage and all associated site works at Ballinvoher, Cloneygowan, Co. Offaly. The planning applica- tion may be inspected, or purchased at a fee not exceeding the rea- sonable cost of making a copy, at the offices of the Planning Authority during its public open- ing hours. A submission or observation in rela- tion to the application may be made in writing to the planning authori- ty on payment of the prescribed fee (€20) within the period of 5 weeks beginning on the date of receipt by the authority of the applica- tion.

49 LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie LAOIS COUNTY COUNCIL “IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE COMMUNITY” COMHAIRLE CHONTAE LAOISE LAOIS COUNTY COUNCIL Áras an Chontae, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. Tel: 057 8664000 Fax: 057 8622313 corpaffairs@laoiscoco.ie www.laois.ie SECTION 75, ROADS ACT 1993 (ROAD REGULATIONS 1994) In accordance with the provisions of Section 75 of the above Act and Article 12 of the Roads Regulations, 1994, Laois County Council hereby give notice of its decision to to temporarily close the road at Luggacurran, specifically the L-7853 from the T-junction at L-7853/ L-78532 to the T-junction at L-3839/ L-7583.

These works are scheduled to take place from Monday, 12th November 2018 to 7th December 2018 (24 hour closure). Access for residents will be accommodated where possible. Diversions will be clearly signposted. A map of the diversion route is available for inspection at www.laois.ie and Áras an Chontae, Portlaoise. Kieran Kehoe, Director of Services PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT ACT 2000 AS AMENDED AND PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT REGULATIONS 2001 AS AMENDED NOTICE OF PROPOSED DEVELOPMENT BY A LOCAL AUTHORITY In accordance with Part XI, Section 179 of the Planning and Development Act 2000 as amended, and Part VIII, Article 80 & 81 of the Planning and Development Regulations 2001 as amended, Laois County Council hereby gives notice of its intention to carry out the following development: Portlaoise Laneways and Lyster Lane Enhancement Scheme The development will comprise of the upgrade of laneways and footpaths in the vicinity of Lyster Square and James Fintan Lalor Avenue including Bull Lane, Lyster Lane and Peppers Lane. These proposed works will include upgrading of the • pavement surfaces • lighting • landscaping • raised junctions and pedestrian crossing points • bus shelter and • the construction of a covered Public Civic Area at Lyster Square Plans and particulars of the proposed development are available for inspection or purchased at a fee not exceeding the reasonable cost of making a copy during office hours at the offices of Laois County Council, Áras an Chontae, JFL Avenue, Portlaoise from Tuesday 13th November 2018 to Monday 10th December 2018 inclusive (excluding Bank and Public Holidays) or by accessing www.laois.ie Submissions or observations with respect to the proposed development dealing with the proper planning and development of the area in which the development will be carried out may be made in writing to Mr. Kieran Kehoe, Director of Services, Laois County Council, Áras an Chontae, JFL Avenue, Portlaoise to be received no later than 4:00 pm on Monday 24th December 2018 (submissions will be accepted no later than 4:00 pm Monday 2nd January 2019 to allow for Christmas Holiday period).

Submissions should be clearly marked “Portlaoise Laneways and Lyster Lane Enhancement Scheme – Part VIII”. The Coucnil is subject to the provisions of the Freedom of Information (FOI) Act. If you consider that any of the information supplied by you is either commercially sensitive or confidential in nature, this should be highlighted and the reasons for its sensitivity specified. In such cases, the relevant material will, in response to the FOI requests, be examined in light of the exemptions provided for in the FOI act. Kieran Kehoe, Director of Services PORTLAOISE LOCAL AREA PLAN 2018-2024 Notice is hereby given, pursuant to Article 14I(2) of the Planning and Development Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 - 2011 that the Elected Members of Laois County Council, being the Planning Authority for the area of Portlaoise, made the Portlaoise Local Area Plan 2018-2024 at their meeting held on Monday, 22nd October 2018.

In accordance with Section 20(4A) of the Planning and Development Act, 2000 (as amended), the Local Area Plan shall be effective from the 19th November 2018. A Strategic Environment Assessment Statement was prepared following the making of the Local Area Plan in accordance with Article 14I(1) of the Planning and Development (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 - 2011. A copy of the Local Area Plan and accompanying documents including the Strategic Environmental Assessment Environmental Report and Statement will be available online at www.laois.ie and will be available for inspection from 19th November 2018 at the following places during normal opening hours: • Planning Counter, Laois County Council, Áras an Chontae, JFL Avenue, Portlaoise, Co. Laois; • Portlaoise Library, Dunamaise House, Lyster Square, Portlaoise, Co. Laois.

Hard copies and CDs of the Local Area Plan and accompanying documents will be available for purchase from the Planning Counter, Laois County Council, Áras an Chontae, JFL Avenue, Portlaoise, Co. Laois. TO HIRE? LOOKING For more details contact 057 8621666 www.leinsterexpress.ie Express LEINSTER www.leinsterexpress.ie REACHOVER37,160POTENTIAL APPLICANTSWITH A PRINT ADVERT ON OUR JOBS PAGE.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie = DRENNAN LJ 19TH ANNIVERSARY Treasured memories of our dear son, Liam John (L.J.), Greenroads who died 16th November, 1999. L.J. Nineteen years have passed, it seems so unfair, That we still carry on but you're not here, To share our lives as in our plan. And see you grow into a fine young man, We miss your smile and thoughful ways, No one can ever replace. We know you are at peace now L.J. In your new home up above in Heaven, So help us through from day to day, And in our hearts you will always stay. Always loved and remembered everyday, Daddy, Mammy, Brothers, Sisters, Nieces and Nephews and extended family.

Anniversary Mass Sunday 25th November in Knockaroo Church @ 9.45am. = CONROY BRIGID 1ST ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Brigid Conroy, Ballymacken, Portlaoise, whose 1st anniversary occurs on 14th November 2018. Those we love don’t go away. They walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near. Still loved, still missed and very dear. Sadly missed by your loving family. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 18th November in Parish Church, Portlaoise at 10am. = CASEY MARGARET (PEG) BALLYDALY FERBANE The Husband and Family of the late Margaret (Peg) Casey, Ballydaly, Ferbane wish to express sincere thanks to all our neighbours and friends who sympathised with us on the sudden passing of Peg and who helped in so many ways. To those who called to the house, attended her funeral mass, sent mass cards, texts and phone calls.

To Fr Michael Morris, Fr Peter Burke, Fr Tom Cox Fr Pat Brown and Fr. O'Reilly Clonaslee for the beautiful co concellabrated mass. To Joe Grennan for all his help and professionalism. Thanks to the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny Ferbane and Mount Sackville who travelled down to Pegs funeral mass. The Holy Sacrifice of the mass will be offered for your intentions of all. Pegs Months mind mass is on November 17th at 7pm in St. Marys Church, Ferbane. = BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE PAUL O'RIORDAN THE GREEN STRADBALLY BIRTHDAY OCCURS ON 16TH NOVEMBER.

ON YOUR BIRTHDAY DAD My heart still aches in sadness, My silent tears still flow, For what it meant to lose you, No one will ever know. Although you cant be here with me, We're truly not apart, Until the final breath I take, You'll be living in my heart. Dad thinking of you today and always, I will love you forever. Katelyn xx = MAUREEN MCEVOY The McEvoy family, Mary and Paula, would like to express their sincere gratitude to everyone who sympathised on the death of their mother Maureen, who died on 18 October 2018. This includes those who attended the Rosary and removal, those who sent Mass Cards, floral tributes or in any way expressed their sympathies on our loss. We would also like to especially thank the following people: her Doctors, Dr. Reeves and Dr. Dillon, and all the staff at Convent Lane Surgery, Athy: Public Health Nurse Tracey Patterson: Dr. Dilip and staff at Aut Even Hospital Kilkenny, who gave Mam exceptional care in her final days: her carers who always looked after Mam, and her lifelong friends Hugh Byrne (Howth), and Tom Fogarty, (Athy). We also extend our thanks to Fr. Brophy, Fr. Rogers, Fr. Kelly, Fr. Breen and Fr. Hannon, the sacristan, altar servers, gravediggers and our Undertaker John Maher, who handled everything with great sensitivity. To everyone who helped in any way, we also extend our sincere thanks. As a token of gratitude, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for all your intentions. Maureen’s Month’s Mind Mass will take place on Sunday 18 November 2018 at 9.30am at The Church of the Assumption, Vicarstown, Co. Laoise.

= MULHARE MICHAEL BROCKLEY PARK STRADBALLY CO. LAOIS DIED 21ST SEPTEMBER 2018 Michael's wife Deirdre, his daughters, sons in law, grandchildren, brothers, sisters and extended family wish to thank most sincerely all those who sympathised with us on our sad loss. Our sincere thanks to Fr. Séan Kelly, Fr. Gerard Breen, P.P., Fr. Dan Dunne, Fr. Frank McEvoy and Rev. Alex Purser for their kind words, prayers and support. Also thanks to the altar servers, Eucharistic ministers, choir, musicians and Church Sacristan. We thank the medical team in Stradbally Medical Practice for all their help and kindness through the many years of Michael's illness and also Stradbally Health Centre.

To the staff at Stradbally Pharmacy, many thanks for your help and advice with Michael's care. We would like to thank the staff of Portlaoise Hospital for their care and kindness to Michael. Also to Ann and John Lynch, Undertakers and the gravediggers for their professionalism. Many thanks to our good neighbours in Brockley Park and to our many friends in the wider community for their support. Thanks to Michael's friends in the O.N.E. for their contribution to the funeral service, Michael would have been proud.

No words can express our thanks to Stradbally GAA for their kindness, support and practical help during the days of Michael's wake and funeral. As it is impossible to thank everyone individually please accept this acknowledgement as a special token of our heartfelt appreciation. = DELANEY PETER TRUMERA MOUNTRATH The relatives of the late Peter Delaney of Trumera, Mountrath would like to thank all who sympathised with them, those who sent Mass cards and all who attended the funeral. Sincere thanks to the wonderful staff of St. Vincent's hospital, Mountmellick who cared for Peter over his long stay.

Thanks to Fr. Joe Brophy for the funeral Mass, the altar servers and Sister Catherine and the choir. Thanks also to the Church sacristan, the readers and the eucharistic ministers who took part in his Mass. Thanks to the Undertakers, Seamus Burke and the gravediggers for their professionalism. Please accept this acknowledgement as a token of our appreciation. = MCEVOY ANN The McEvoy family, Mary and Paula, would like to express their sincere gratitude to everyone who sympathised on the death of their sister Ann, who died on 23 July 2018. This includes those who attended the Rosary and removal, those who sent Mass Cards, floral tributes or in any way expressed their sympathies on our loss. Thanks to the staff at Bon Retir Nursing Home, Spain who cared for Ann when she first became ill. Our thanks as well to Dr. O’Neill and all the staff at St. Vincent’s Hospital, Athy, who took exceptional care of Ann during her last four years. We also extend our thanks to Fr. Brophy, Fr. Rogers, Fr. Kelly and Fr. Hannon, the sacristan, altar servers, her grand-nephew David, accompanied by Mick Leech, who together provided the beautiful Church music. Our thanks also goes to the gravediggers and our Undertaker John Maher, who was very helpful to us all at a very sad time. To everyone who helped in any way, we extend our thanks. As a token of our gratitude, the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been offered for all.

God gave us strength to bear it, And courage to fight the blow, What it has meant to lose you, God alone will ever know. Always remembered by her son Michael. Though you were gone, Before I was born, I will know you and love you, For your memory lives on. Your grandson Eoin. = COMERFORD ELLEN 17TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of our dear mother Ellen, 10 Manor Lane Mountmellick, Co. Laois, who died on 16th November, 2001. MAM Just a prayer from the family who loves you, Just a memory fond and true, In our hearts you will live forever, Because we thought the world of you. Although we smile and make no fuss, No one misses you more than us, And when old times we do recall, Thats when we miss you most of all. As you were you will always be, Forever special in our memory, Memories are precious they don't fade away, We think of you always not just today. Sadly missed by your loving sons, daughters, sons-in-law and daughters-in-law. NANNY A special person, A special face, A special Nanny, We can never replace. You minded us when we were small, Look out for us now we are tall, A daily thought, A silent tear, A constant wish that you were here. Always loved and sadly missed by your grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Sympathy Prayer Dear Lord, please comfort those in grief, Love them, lift them, give relief For loss they’ve suffered, sadness felt, Make this sorrow slowly melt.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Memorial Card Service CONTACT Tel Caroline Whelan on 0578621666 or email caroline.whelan@leinsterexpress.ie Leinster Express = HICKEY ELIZABETH 2A EMMETT STREET, MOUNTMELLICK CO. LAOIS 1st anniversary away from home on 16th November. To lose someone we loved so much, Brings pain beyond belief, There are no words to ease our pain, Our sadness and our grief, We feel we have lost someone so close, So wonderful and dear, We think about your special ways, And wish that you were near, But although you have left this world, You will stay within our hearts, Smiling like an angel, Even though we are apart. For love is everlasting, And so are our memories, Your legacy, that is always there, To light the way for us. Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving sisters Meta and Mary, brothers Andy and Johnny, nieces, nephews and extended family.

= DOHENY MICHAEL 2ND ANNIVERSARY Fondest memories of Michael who died on 15th November 2016 R.I.P. Masses offered. Someone still misses you, Someone still cares, Someone still whispers, Your name in their prayers, Some may forget you, Now you are gone, But I will remember and love you, No matter how long. Deeply missed by your loving partner Bridget and her daughter Julie, Ashbrook, Abbeyleix. = HEWITT GAZZA 17TH ANNIVERSARY Cherished memories of a wonderful son whose 17th anniversary occurs on 16th November 2018. No one know the heartaches, That lies behind our smiles, No one knows how many times, We have broken down and cried. Those we love don't go away, They walk beside us everyday, Unseen, unheard but always near, Still loved, still missed and very dear. Sadly missed by Mam and Dad, Jimmy, Dolores, Darragh, Cathal, Evan and Caoimhe, Dotty, Vicky, Jessica, Sara and Veronica, Cathy, Fergal, Aidan and Niamh and all your extended relations and friends. DECLAN"GAZZA" On a cold November night, You heard a gentle call, You took the hand of Jesus, And quietly left us all. Remembered always by Nan and husband David, Phil and husband Trevor and Bob. Anniversary Mass will be celebrated in the Church of the Sacred Heart, Stradbally on Saturday 17th November 2018.

GAZZA Just as you were, you will always be, A special person in our memories. Murt, Hazel, Chloe and Lauren. O'RIORDAN AND MAHER FAMILIES Thinking of Jock and Paul , Today and everyday R.I.P. Seamie and Chriss. = FLYNN TERESA (5TH ANNIVERSARY) IN LOVING MEMORY OF TERESA , LATE OF KNIGHTSTOWN, MOUNTMELLICK, CO. LAOIS A whisper on a November day, You heard a gentle call, You took the hand of Jesus, and gently left us all. Your memories are so precious, You will always be remembered, And loved by all of us. Sadly missed and always remembered by your loving daughters, sons, daughters in law, son in law and grandchildren.

Anniversary Mass in St. Paul's Church, Emo Sunday 18th November 2018 at 11am. = HARTFORD JOHN, BRACKNAGH, RATHANGAN In loving memory of John who died on the 15th November 1991. Looking back with memories, Upon the path you trod, We bless the hours we had with you, And leave the rest to God. Very sadly missed and never forgotten by your loving wife Rose, daughters Teresa and Sandra, son Liam, son in law Jason, grandchildren Nathan, Kurt and Sara. JOHN Of all the many blessings, However great or small, To have had you for a brother in law, Was the greatest one of all. Loved and remembered by Pauline, Gerry, Mike, Ben, Tony and families. = GRANT PJ 13TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of my dear husband P.J., Colt, Ballyroan, died 18th November, 2005. We hold you close within our hearts And there you shall remain To walk with us throughout our lives Until we meet again.

Sadly missed by your loving wife Kathleen, sons, daughters, sons in law, daughters in law and grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 18th November at 11am in Raheen Church. = FENLON JOHN 27TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of John, Ballyadding, Ballybrittas who died 17th November 1991. SON Each morning when we awaken, And realise that you are gone, No one knows the loneliness, As we try to carry on. Words cannot heal the heartbreak, Or stop a silent tear, Or take away the memories, Of a son we loved so dear. Loved and sadly missed, Mam and Dad. BROTHER/UNCLE JOHN This message comes with all our love, From here on earth to Heaven above, We miss you more than words can say, But in our hearts you will always stay. Love Antoinette, Joe, John-Joe, Claudia, Dylan and Annabelle.

JOHN So many things have happened, That we wanted you to share, So many times we needed you, And wished that you were there, Your memories are so precious, Your presence missed so much, You will always be remembered, And missed by all of us. Love Olivia, Paul, Séan Og, Aobhin and Doireann. JOHN Silent memories keep you near, As time unfolds another year, From our homes you may be gone, But in our hearts you still live on. Sadly missed by Keith, Rachael and Evelyn. JOHN We have so many memories John And in our hearts they stay No amount of passing time Will ever take them away Loved always David, Regina and Michael. = EDWARDS MARY (NEE KEANE). SUTTON, SURREY AND CASTLEFLEMING ERRILL 1ST ANNIVERSARY OCCURS 13TH NOVEMBER 2018 There is no night without a dawning, No winter without a spring, And beyonds deaths dark horizon, Our hearts once more will sing. Remembered today and always by your husband Stan, sisters, brothers, extended family and friends.

Anniversary Mass for Mary will be held on Sunday 18th November at 10am in The Church Of Our Lady Queen of the Universe, Errill. = HEARNS EILISH 1ST ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Eilish Hearns, Colt, Ballyroan, Co.Laois, who died on 17th November 2017. A smile for all, a heart of gold, The very best this world could hold, Never selfish, always kind, Those are the memories you left behind. It does not take a special day, For us to think of you, Each mass we hear, each prayer we say, Is offered up to you. Sadly missed by Oliver, Larry, Joe, Liz, Yvonne, Martina and extended family xx Eilish's 1st anniversary Mass takes place in St. Fintan's Church, Raheen on Saturday 17th November at 7.30pm.

Rest in Peace When someone you love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure. Author Unknown I am Still With You If it seems that I am far away on this empty and solemn day, Just open your heart and know it’s true, that I am still right here with you. If during the day things are going wrong, please don’t feel sad and alone. Just open your heart and know it’s true, that I am still right here with you. When nighttime falls and the day is done. If you are feeling alone and sleep won’t come, Just open your heart and know it’s true, that I am still right here with you.

Close your eyes, and feel the warm embrace. Sleep peacefully in the wings of grace. If sadness ﬁnds you in the morning light, if you feel alone, don’t give up trying! Hold this feather close and know it’s true, that I am always here with you. In MeMorIaM In MeMorIaM In MeMorIaM In MeMorIaM FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS Call: 057 86 21666 Email: advertising@leinsterexpress.ie Post or call in at: 107 Lower Main Street, Portlaoise

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie = O' KEEFFE ANNAMAY 8TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Annamay, late of Brocca, Clonaslee, who died on 11th November 2010 . On a dull November morning, You heard a gentle call, You took the hand of Jesus, And quickly left us all, You were always someone special, Generous, kind and true, You will never be forgotten, For we thought the world of you. Sadly missed and never forgotten by your loving family . = MCCABE LIAM AND SHEILA 14TH AND 9TH ANNIVERSARIES In loving memory of Liam and Sheila, late of "Beechville", Abbeyleix Road, Portlaoise, whose anniversaries occur on 23rd November (14th) and 26th October (9th) respectively. Those we love don't walk away. They walk beside us every day, Unseen, unheard but always near, Still loved, still missed, still very dear. Will those who think of them today, A little prayer to Jesus say. Remembered always by your loving family. Anniversary Mass for Liam and Sheila will be held in SS. Peter's and Paul's Church, Portlaoise on Saturday 17th November at 6.30pm = KELLY JOE 12TH ANNIVERSARY IN LOVING MEMORY OF JOE, KILBRIDE STREET, TULLAMORE, WHOSE ANNIVERSARY OCCURS ON THE 16TH NOVEMBER.

Today is the anniversary of the day you went away Memories are precious they don't fade, they stay You'll never be forgotten everyday we shed a tear But it's only because we love you And wish you were still here. Loved and missed always by your loving wife Helen, daughters Nicole and Kala and son Michael. xxxx JOE Time and years slip gentle by But love and memories never die in God's care you rest above In our hearts you est with love. Sadly missed by your mother-in-law Margaret and all the Higgins family.

= O'RIORDAN PAUL 17TH ANNIVERSARY DAD: I thought of you today, But that is nothing new. I thought about you yesterday, And the days before that too. I think of you silence I often speak your name. All I have are memories, And your picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake From which I will never part God has you in his arms, I have you on my heart. Love always Katelyn. = MURPHY BETTY 1ST ANNIVERSARY BALLYROAN, ABBEYLEIX A loved one lives forever, In the hearts of those who cared. Forever remembered by your loving family. Anniversary Mass at 11am on Sunday 18th November in the Church of the Most Holy Rosary, Abbeyleix.

= HEWITT AND MAHER We will stop and remember you today, In a very special way, You are forever in our thoughts. O'Riordan and Byrne family. = MCWEY MURTY 13TH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Murty, late of Clontico, Ballyroan, who died on 19th November 2005. Will those who think of him today, A prayer to Jesus say. Remembered by your wife and family. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 24th Novem- ber at 8pm in St. Lazerian's Spink Laois. = PHELAN MATT 1ST ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Matt, Derrycanton, who died on 10th November 2017. Your gentle nature and kindly ways, Leave memories of bygone days, A gentle smile, a heart of gold, Memories of you will never grow old. Loved and remembered always, your loving wife Bridie, daughter Joan, daughter in law Clair, sons John and Joe.

= O CONNELL KATHLEEN In loving memory of Kathleen O Connell, Rathdowney, whose 18th Anniversary occurs on the 20th November. Anniversary Mass on Saturday 17th November at 7.30 in the Church of the Most Holy Trinity, Rathdowney. Time and years slip gently by, But special memories never die. In our hearts you will always stay, And be with us throughout the days. Remembering you is easy, We do it everyday, Missing you is the heartache, That never goes away. Sadly missed and always loved by your husband James, loving sons and daughters Edward, Michael, Frances, Mary and Breda and grandchildren Triona and Laura. xxxxxxxx BIRTHDAY REMEMBRANCE Mam We wish you were here today, Even just for a little while, So we could say Happy Birthday Mam, And see your beautiful smile. The only gifts today will be, The gifts you left behind, Your laughter, joy and happiness, Precious memories, the best kind. May the angels hold you close Mam, And sing you a happy song, And we'll send you love and best wishes, Today and all year long.

Happy Birthday Mam , love and miss you always, love Fran, Mike, Ned , Mary and Breda.xxxxx DEAR HEART OF JESUS in the past I have asked for many favours. This time I ask you for this very special one. Take it dear Heart of Jesus and place it within your broken heart where your Holy Father sees it then in His merciful eyes it will become your favour not mine. Sacred Heart of Jesus I place all my trust in thee. Say this prayer for 3 days, promise publica- tion and favours will be granted. A.T. = LALOR CORRIGAN ANGIE ALLENWOOD, MIDDLE, NAAS, CO. KILDARE. 1ST ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of our beautiful daughter Angie, whose 1st anniversary occurs on 17th November 2018.

On a dull November evening, You heard a gentle call, You took the hand of Jesus, And quickly left us all. You were always someone special, Generous, kind and true, You will never be forgotten, For we thought the world of you. Sadly missed by Mam, Dad, your brothers Fintan and Daniel, your sisters Maureen and Suzie, your husband Keith, daughter Olivia and sons Luke and Jordan, mother in law Breda and extended family and friends and all who knew her. May she rest in peace. Angie's 1st anniversary Mass will be held on Saturday 17th November at 6.30pm in Allenwood Church.

= JONATHAN MAHER IN LOVING MEMORY OF JONATHAN WHOSE ANNIVERSARY OCCURS ON 16TH NOVEMBER. Those special memories of you Jonathan, Will always bring a smile, If only we could have you back, For just a little while, Then we could sit and talk again, Just like we used to do, You always meant so much to us, And always will do too, The fact you're no longer here, Will always cause us pain, But you're forever in our hearts, Until we meet again. Love and missing you always Jock, Mammy, Daddy, Sinéad, Ashling, Darren, Dean, Chris, Tristan, Darragh and Becca. O'RIORDAN/HEWITT Will those who think of them today, A little prayer to Jesus say. From the Maher family. Anniversary Mass for Jonathan will be held on Saturday 17th November at 6.30pm in Sacred Heart Church, Stradbally. = Ó'RIORDAN PAUL THE GREEN, STRADBALLY IN LOVING MEMORY OF PAUL, 17TH ANNIVERSARY AND BIRTHDAY OCCURS AT THIS TIME.

Time may pass and fade away, But silent thoughts and memories stay, No longer in our lives to share, But in our hearts you are always there, Your memories are our greatest treasure, To love, to cherish, to keep forever. Always loved and remembered by your Mam, Martin, Denis, Catherine, Lisa, Martin jnr, nieces and nephews and extended family. Another leaf has fallen, another soul has gone. But still we have God’s promises, in every robin’s song. For he is in His heaven, and though He takes away, He always leaves to mortals, the bright sun’s kindly ray. He leaves the fragrant blossoms, and lovely forest, green. And gives us new found comfort, when we on Him will lean. I am Still With You If it seems that I am far away on this empty and solemn day, Just open your heart and know it’s true, that I am still right here with you.

If during the day things are going wrong, please don’t feel sad and alone. Just open your heart and know it’s true, that I am still right here with you. When nighttime falls and the day is done. If you are feeling alone and sleep won’t come, Just open your heart and know it’s true, that I am still right here with you. Close your eyes, and feel the warm embrace. Sleep peacefully in the wings of grace. If sadness ﬁnds you in the morning light, if you feel alone, don’t give up trying! Hold this feather close and know it’s true, that I am always here with you. in MeMoriaM in MeMoriaM in MeMoriaM Thanksgivings in MeMoriaM FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS Call: 057 86 21666 Email: advertising@leinsterexpress.ie Post or call in at: 107 Lower Main Street, Portlaoise

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie = PURCELL DONAL 1ST ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of Donal, late of Ballinalacken, Attanagh, Portlaoise who died on 13th November 2017. A SILENT PRAYER FOR DONAL A loving nature, a heart of gold, The best this world could hold, These are the memories that you left behind. A silent thought, and a quiet prayer, For a special person that is now in God's care. So rest in peace dear Donal, We pray that God has given you the crown you have truly won.

Loved and remembered by his loving mother Sadie, brothers, sisters, brothers in law, sister in law, nieces and nephews. Mass in St. Patrick's Church, Ballyragget at 10 o clock on Sunday 18th November 2018. With an In Memoriam notice in your Speak with our Family Notices Team on 0504-29100 / 29102 Remember Them... Tel 057 8621666 email: advertising@leinsterexpress.ie Leinster Express = RYAN RICHARD AND JULIA LATE OF BANDON, CORK AND MARIAN AVENUE PORTLAOISE. Richard (16th anniversary), Julia (8th Anniversary) Richie You always had a smile to share, A laugh, a joke, a time to care, A wonderful nature warm and true, These memories keep us close to you. God has you in his keeping, We have you in our hearts. Always remembered by your loving family, nieces, nephews, brothers, sisters, Caroline, Kain, Gina, Aimee, Aaron, and grandchildren Callum, Kacey and Amelia. MAM May you always walk in sunshine, And God's love around you flow, For the memories you gave us, No one will ever know. You always did your very best, Your heart was true and tender, You simply lived for those you loved, And those you loved remember Mam. Sadly missed, always remembered by your sons, daughters, daughters in law, sons in law, grandchildren and great grandchildren. Anniversary Mass on Sunday 18th November at 12.30pm In Portlaoise.

= WESTMAN KATHLEEN 22 CONNOLLY STREET MOUNTMELLICK 5th anniversary occurs on 20th November 2018. No one knows how much we miss you, No one knows the bitter pain, We have suffered since we lost you, Life has never been the same. In our hearts your memory lingers, Sweet, tender fond and true, There is not a day dear mother, That we do not think of you. From your loving family. We also remember Nancy Westman whose anniversary occurs at this time. Anniversary Mass on 18th November in St. Joseph's Church, Mountmellick. = WELLWOOD LATE OF CLONKING, ABBEYLEIX Remembering with love our dear sisters, Betty (twentieth anniversary) and Noelle (first anniversary).

A candle to remember, may it burn ever so bright As we look to the heavens on this very night. Beyond the stars, our dear loved ones soars Embraced by their Savior on heaven’s shores. As the angels protect them and sing their sweet name We honor their life with the glow of this ﬂame. So we light this candle for our loved ones tonight As a symbol of our love and their eternal life. Afterglow I'd like the memory of me to be a happy one. I'd like to leave an afterglow of smiles when life is done. I'd like to leave an echo whispering softly down the ways.

Of happy times and laughing times and bright and sunny days. I'd like the tears of those who grieve to dry before the sun. Of happy memories that I leave when life on earth is done. In MeMorIaM In MeMorIaM FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS Call: 057 86 21666 Email: advertising@leinsterexpress.ie Post or call in at: 107 Lower Main Street, Portlaoise

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Location: Castlegate, Portarlington Description: 4-bed semi Price: In excess of €210,000 Seller: Matt Dunne Contact: 057 8623349 AT A GLANCE Great value on offer in Port house M att Dunne Auctioneer is handling the sale of a refurbished four bed semi in Castlegate, Portarlington which was recently purchased at an auction. This spacious home measuring 1,340 square feet comprises of four double bedrooms, a master en suite, separate bathroom, large living room with an open fireplace, double doors to playroom, a large fitted kitchen with separate dining area, a utility room and downstairstoilet. The entire has house been modernised, that is it has been re-tiled, painted, fitted with new doors, and the gas fired heating and electricity have been given the seal of approval.

There is a large rear garden, with the front of the houseoverlookingthegreen. Castlegate is ideally located on the Station Road within a short stroll of the train station and Portarlingtontowncentre. Theestatehasalwaysbeen popular as it offers a mixture of three bed, four bed and large five bed detached houses. “When I was originally sellingthisestatein2005and 2006,” says Matt Dunne, “there were queues outside theshowhouse.” “90% loans are available to suitableapplicants. “Offers are invited in excessof€210,000. “Remember new three bed semis in Monasterevin are selling for €249,000 so this has to be great value for money.

Viewing anytime by appointment. Contact Matt Dunne Auctioneer, Main Street, Portarlington, phone 0578623349. The four bed semi at Castlegate which Matt Dunne is selling PROPERTY TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION: Contact Gemma: 086 047 9762 Email gemma.fitzpatrick@leinsterexpress.ie EXPRESS Joe Coogan records huge price for land letting at Kilbricken auction A huge price was paid for land leasing in Laois last week. Auctioneer Joseph Coogan said that there was very good interest at his land letting auction whichtookplacelastweek. The lands, situated at Coole,Kilbricken,Mountrath is of prime grazing quality in one block which also included a cattle crush and a watersupply.

Approximately 15 people attended the auction, and bidding was very brisk betweentwoactivebidders. The land was eventually leased for €300 per acre, per year for a 5 year lease to a Laois dairy farmer. There were no entitlements with thisland. “We have received a lot of enquiries from farmers actively looking for grazing and tillage lands in County Laois and surrounding counties,” noted Joseph Coogan. “Should you be interested inlettingyourlandspleasedo nothesitatetocontactJoseph Coogan Auctioneer for the best advice in selling or leasingyourland.” A view of a section of the land at Coole, Kilbricken which made €300 an acre at a land letting auction last week

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Luxury house for sale M att Dunne, the Portarlington based Auctioneer is selling a house within the Heritage Golf & Country Club at Killenard, Portarlington, county Laois. If you haven’t been there a visit to the Heritage complex isamust. The 5 Star Hotel and Spa, with championship golf course and pleasure walks is only five minutes from Portarlingtontrainstation. Thirty-one trains travel dailytoandfromDublin,with an average journey duration of50minutes.

As well as the very accessible train service, the M7 motorway is only ten minutesaway. The house at 3 Rathmiles Grove is a two storey, measuring 3,400 square feet. There are four bedrooms, withthreeoftheseensuite. Complementing these is a bathroom, sauna, study, TV room, lounge, dining room and kitchen breakfast area. Outside, there is a sunny southwestfacinggarden. The property is situated within Rathmiles Grove, a quiet cul-de-sac, just at the entrance gates to the Heritagecomplex. Thepropertyisvacantand ready for purchase. During theboomthiswasa€850,000 property, now offers excess €460,000.

Viewing by appointment with Matt Dunne, Main Street, Portarlington. Phone 0578623349 or email info@mattdunne.ie A number of views of the house at 3 Rathmiles Grove in the Heritage complex at Killenard. The house includes four bedrooms, with three of these en suite PROPERTY TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION: Contact Gemma: 086 047 9762 Email gemma.fitzpatrick@leinsterexpress.ie EXPRESS

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie MOTORS TO ADVERTISE IN THIS SECTION: Contact Alison 086 0266713 alison.casey@leinsterexpress.ie The best deals on wheels from local garages every week EXPRESS October car registrations Official statistics released by the Society of the Irish Motor Industry(SIMI)showthatthe totalnewcarregistrationsfor the month of October were down 11.2% (1,725) when compared to October 2017 (1,943). From January to October this year new units in Laois numbered1,503. This compared to 1,520 in 2017, representing a 1.12 per centdrop.

Registrations year to date are also down 4.4% (124,809) on the same period last year (130,491). New Light Commercial Vehicle registrations (LCV) have increased by 14.1% (998) on October 2017 (875) and are up5.9%(24,779)ontheyearto date. While new heavy commercial Vvehicles (HGV) have increase 13.2% for the monthofOctober(129). When compared to the same month last year (114) they are up 4.8% (2,460) on theyeartodate. Imported used cars have shown an increase 7.45% for the month of October 2018 (9,141) when compared to October2017(8,507). Meanwhile, year to date are 8.95% (86,418) ahead of 2017(79,320).

Commenting on the figures Brian Cooke SIMI Director General Designate said, “It comes as no surprise thatnewcarregistrationsare down again this month, in line with the trend in the marketsofarthisyear. “While the domestic economic backdrop continues to be positive, as evidenced by the increase in commercial vehicle registrations this year, the impact of Brexit and the associated weakness of sterling has seen an increase in the volume of used imports, which has been to the detriment of the new car market,”hestated. 'The impact of Brexit and the associated weakness of Sterling has seen an increase in the volume of used imports, which has been to the detriment of the new car market' Figures: New car registrations for October down 11.2% (1,725) when compared to 2017 DUBLIN ROAD, PORTLAOISE - Tel: 057 8622048 Open Mon-Fri. 9am-6pm; Sat. 9am-2pm – EXIT 16 ON M7 WINTER SERVICE SPECIALS

57 LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie DUBLIN ROAD, PORTLAOISE Tel: 057 8664895 Open Mon-Fri. 9am-6pm; Sat. 9am-2pm – EXIT 16 ON M7 0% FINANCE available on SPORTAGE, CEED & STONIC Excludesdeliveryandrelatedcharges.Modelsareshownforillustrativepurposesonly .Pleasecheckkia.comandwithyourdealerforfullspecificationsofyourselectedmode l.*Lendingcriteriaand termsand conditions apply.Financeis provided bywayof ahirepurchaseagreement.Financeexamplesarebasedona fixedrateAPRof 0%andareinclusiveofaonce-offpurchaseinstalmentof€10.Eg:KiaSportage1.6K2Dies el–0%HP€29,495.00;Deposit €14,747.50; Loanamount€14,747.50;Term48months; Monthlyrepayments€307.24.Toqualifyforthisfinanceoffer,aminimumdepositof40%o fthe retailpriceappliesandamaximumtermof48monthsapplies.RatequotediscorrectasatO ctober1st2018andis subjecttochange.Thisofferisavailableonall newselected191Ceed,StonicandSportagemodelsorderedbyJan31st2019atparticipati ngdealersonly.ThecreditproviderisBankofIreland Financewhich is aregisteredtradingnameof BankofIreland.Modeltrimlevelschosenforfinanceexamplesmay differfrommodelsfeaturedonthis page.* Supervaluvoucherofferisfor191registrationsonlyandisbasedona non-refundable€500depositforcarsorderedby19thDecember2018. DUBLIN ROAD, PORTLAOISE Tel: 057 8674800 Open Mon-Fri. 9am-6pm; Sat. 9am-2pm - EXIT 16 ON M7 DOWNEY’S NISSAN UP TO €5,500 SCRAPPAGE *Scrappage offer is available on the following passenger models: Micra, Juke, Pulsar, Qashqai and X-Trail *Scrappage value offered varies depending on the model of interest chosen. Qualifying trade-in vehicles must be registered in the Republic of Ireland for at least 6 months prior to the date of trade in. Qualifying trade-in vehicles must be registered in the same name as purchasing customer. Qualifying trade-in vehicles must have valid NCT/CVRT(DOE) and road tax certificates. Qualifying trade-in vehicles must have been insured for use on the road for at least three months in the 18 months prior to trade-in. Qualifying Cars must be registered before 31st March 2019.This is a mutually exclusive offer and cannot be combined with any other offers that may apply.The offer is limited and may be withdrawn at any time at Nissan Ireland’s discretion.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Ford ECOSPORT - pocket sized SUV Hugh Maguire: Reviews Ford's compact new SUV Ford claim that their new ECOSPORTisanentirelynew typeofSUV. Well you can judge for yourself but for me I am not quitesurewhatitachieves. Yes it has some excellent new technologies such as Ford’s communication system Ford SYNC, but so do othermodelsintheirrange. The ECOSPORT is about the size of the Fiesta inside but stands tall with the spare wheel mounted on the rear door as in large 4x4 type vehicles.

There are two engines a 3 cylinder 1.0 litre petrol Ecoboost, or as tested here the1.5DV5dieselEcoboost. FIRST IMPRESSIONS I have got to give it top marks for style. The new ECOSPORTisasmartlooking mini SUV. Despite its compact dimensions it has a presence. With attractive alloy wheels and front and rear skid plates it looks the part. BEHIND THE WHEEL The cabin of the new ECOSPORT is good and actually quite contemporary with sweeping lines and a definitelysportyovertone. The high driving position is great and the level of standard equipment as we have come to expect from Ford is very good. I am not going to list everything here but in addition to all the now expectedsafetyfeaturessuch as ABS, ISOFIX, multiple airbags and so on, the new ECOSPORT boasts some very interesting technologies whichmeritmention. Ford SYNC, allows smart phones to be connected via Bluetooth and then stream musicfromyourphonetothe cars speakers. In addition SYNCautomaticallyconnects the cars occupants to the emergency services in the event of an accident. Ford SYNC lets you control your music and make and receive calls on your mobile, using simple, direct voice commands. For example, if ‘home’islistedasacontacton your mobile, you just need to say: “Call home” and the systemwillautomaticallydial that number. You can use voice commands to play songs from a USB or MP3/iPod too, or stream music from a Bluetooth -compatible phone. The system even reads your incomingtextsaloud. The cabin is generally well laid out and will accomadate 4adultsquitenicely.Ididfeel however some of the plastics usedinsidelookedabitcheap with that hard finish. It could bebetter.

PERFORMANCE My test car was powered by the 1.5 DV 5 Ecoboost engine which was mated to the standard 5-speed gearbox. With a reasonable power output of 91PS I found performance to be quite good. It is a refined diesel unit too and over my weeks test proved frugal enough to burn just 4.9 litres of diesel per 100km. It falls into band A$ forroadtax. ROAD BEHAVIOUR The new ECOSPORT offers a perfect blend of agile handling with excellent ride quality. Furthermore it proves nicely quiet and refinedatallspeeds. In fact this is a very rewarding little car to drive. Many will like the higher driving position offered by the SUV like stance of the ECOSPORT,andthefrontand rear skidplates do offer some limited protection should you venture onto the hilly stuff. Though I feel buyers of the ECOSPORT will remain on terra firma for the most part!

Accomodation is good too with good room for four adultsandadecentsizedboot accessed via the large swing openingtailgate. VERDICT The new Ford ECOSPORT is a stylish, and capable compact SUV. Its nimble around town and I suppose offers a bit more ground clearance and therefore versatilityforthosewhowant that.BeyondthatthoughIam really not sure why I would wantone. The new Ford ECOSPORT costsfrom€23,995andcomes standard with a full 5 year Fordwarranty. 'The new ECOSPORT is a smart looking mini SUV. Despite its compact dimensions it has a presence. With attractive alloy wheels and front and rear skid plates it looks the part EXPRESS MOTORS 58 WHEN IT COMES TO SERVICE THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE BALLYBRITTAS MOTORS LTD. You can’t beat the feeling of home. And for your ŠKODA it’s no diﬀerent. That’s why, no matter where you bought it or how old it is, you and your ŠKODA will always receive a warm welcome. Only our technicians can promise the care and attention your ŠKODA deserves. So, for a quality service at an aﬀordable price, bring your ŠKODA home. For a warm welcome and the best care for your ŠKODA.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Ford’s S-Max ST-Line adds sporty touch Hugh Maguire: On the sporty tone of the S-Max Since the original of the species was launched back in 2007 the S-Max has been selling very well all over Europe,testimonyifanywere neededastothepopularityof this new niche created by Ford. The S-Max attempts to bridge the gap between being a family car Dad is happy to drive(andsonotanMPV)and beinganMPV.SoFordcallita Sport Activity Vehicle (SAV). The ST-Line is the more sporty orientated version of thismodel.

HAS IT GOT ANY STREET CRED? The S-Max ST-Line really doeslookdistinctive.Withits sleek lines it manages to look more like a sporting estate than a 7 seat family wagon. The 18” Rock metallic alloys, and ST-Line bodykit give this S-max a really sporty and attractivestyle. Other details such s the high gloss grille, and Black Appliquefrontandrearlights addalovelytouchtoitsclassy look. WHAT’S IT LIKE INSIDE? The cabin of the S-Max ST-Line is excellent and quite contemporarywithsweeping lines and a definitely sporty overtone.

The cloth upholstery and sports seats with its contrasting red stitching does look very upmarket indeed. I like the broad centre console with large easy to use touch screen which operates everything from Navigation, to climate, Audio and Phone systems. The Panoramic glassroofislovely. The elevated driving position is great and the level ofstandardequipmentisvery good. Nice touches include plenty of oddments space, cup holders, good LED style interiorlighting. I am not going to list everything here but in addition to all the now expectedsafetyfeaturessuch as ABS, ISOFIX, multiple airbags and so on it even has sideairbagsforthelastrowof seats.

The S-Max ST-Line boasts interesting technologies which merit mention such as the standard Lane keeping aid and Traffic Sign Recognition, cruise control withintelligentspeedlimiter, andadaptiveLEDheadlights. WHAT’S UNDER THE BONNET? This S-Max ST-Line is powered by Ford’s 2.0 TDCI produces 150 PS and is mated in this case to the 6-speed manualgearbox. The engine is quiet and refined with plenty of mid range power for safe overtaking. Furthermore it returns prettygoodfuelconsumption results too, burning 6.6 litres per100kmovermyroadtest. WILL I ENJOY DRIVING IT? You don't buy a family 7-seater for the sheer driving pleasure you hope it may deliver. The S-Max St-Line however proves comfortable and surefooted whether on wet or dry roads. It drives in a more car-like fashion with minimalbodyrollincorners. The ride and handling combination is just about perfectandfirmenoughtobe rewardingtodrive. The steering is nicely weighted, and the powerful brakes provide reassuring stopping.

Accommodation is very good with ample head and legroom for adults both front andrear.Thelargerearhatch allows access to the good sizedluggageareaandthe3rd row of seats are perfect for kids (but only kids and small onesatthat!) SO WHAT’S THE FINAL VERDICT? The ST-Line version of the S-Max does offer a more sporty tone to this rather good car while delivering all the practicality and style of the‘standard”version. Prices start at €36,995 for the entry model to the ST-Linerangewiththemodel testedcostingfrom€38,495. The S-Max ST-Line really does look distinctive. The 18” Rock metallic alloys, and ST-Line bodykit give this S-max a really sporty and attractive style 61 EXPRESS MOTORS *Offer available on all new XC60 cars ordered from 1st October 2018 to 31st March 2019. Terms and conditions apply. Excludes delivery and related charges. Model is shown for illustrative purposes only. Fuel consumption for the Volvo Range in l/100km (mpg): Urban 5.3 (53.3) – 9.4 (30.1), Extra Urban 3.9 (72.4) – 7.1 (39.8), Combined 4.4 (64.2) – 7.9 (35.8) CO2 Emissions 117 – 189g/km. All new Volvo cars come with a 3 year warranty and 3 years’ roadside assistance (standard with Volvo on Call). SWITCH TO THE VOLVO XC60 HYBRID WITH LUXURY DIGITAL PACK The Volvo XC60 Hybrid delivers uncompromising power, effortless Scandinavian design, and world-leading safety technology – because your journey counts.

And with lower CO2 emissions, every journey you make in the Volvo XC60 Hybrid counts even more. Join us in making the switch. For a limited time only, receive a luxury digital pack worth €3,230 for only €699* Front and Rear Park Assist Rear Parking Camera Harmon Kardon Premium Sound System Smartphone integration with USB Hub CONTACT VOLVO CARS CARLOW TO ARRANGE A TEST DRIVE. SEE VOLVOCARSCARLOW.IE Volvo Cars Carlow www.volvocarscarlow.ie Dublin Road, Carlow Ph: (059) 918 3371

62 LEINSTER EXPRESS www.leinsterexpress.ie Tuesday, November 13, 2018 TEST DRIVE THE PEUGEOT SUV RANGE AT BOLAND CARLOW PEUGEOT DURING PEUGEOT DRIVETIME GRIP CONTROL(1) PEUGEOT i-Cockpit® FINANCE FROM 3.9% APR* BOLAND PEUGEOT CARLOW www.bolandcarlow.ie Main Peugeot Dealers, Dublin Road, Carlow. Tel: 059-9183351 Finance Example: Peugeot 2008 Active 1.2: Retail Price† €21,943. Customer Deposit / Trade In €7,679.70. Finance Amount €14,263.30 .36 monthly payments of €211. Total Cost of Credit €1,312.19. GMFV†† (Optional Final Payment) €7,916. Fixed APR 3.9%* (Annual Percentage Rate) as at 1st October 2018. †Includes delivery & related charges. Model is shown for illustrative purposes only. ††The Guaranteed Minimum Future Value (GMFV) is payable if you renew or retain the vehicle at the end of the agreement. Further charges may be applied by your Peugeot Dealer subject to kilometre limits/ condition of the vehicle.*Lending criteria and conditions apply (Over 18s only). APR is inclusive of a documentation fee of €63.49. To qualify for this Finance Offer, a minimum deposit of 10% is required. Rate quoted is correct as at 1st October 2018 and is subject to change. Offer available on new 2008 models registered from 1st October 2018 until 31st January 2019 at participating dealers. This is a Consumer Hire Purchase agreement provided by Bank of Ireland t/a Bank of Ireland Finance. Ownership remains with Bank of Ireland until the optional final payment is made.

Combined consumption (l/100 km): 2008: from 3.7 to 5.2; 3008: from 4.0 to 5.3; 5008: from 4.1 to 6.1. CO2 emissions (g/km): 2008: from 96 to 120; 3008: from 103 to 136; 5008: from 106 to 141. (1) Optional extra or standard according to version.

63 LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie For more information or to book a test drive contact: KONA by Hyundai Trade in your current car for the KONA to avail of the Hyundai range of 191 offers† : 5 Years Unlimited Mileage Warranty* 5 Years AA Roadside Assistance 5 Years Free Health Check 5 Years Free Servicing* PLUS one of the following 3.9% APR Finance * The Hyundai 5 Year Unlimited Mileage Warranty applies only to Hyundai vehicles that have been originally sold by an authorized Hyundai dealer to an end-customer, as set out in the terms and conditions of the warranty booklet. # Hyundai Kona Comfort. Retail price €20,995.

What drives us, is driving you into the future and the new 191 T-Roc has the innovative design to take you wherever you want to go. That’s why we’re offering low monthly repayments from just €279 per month with PCP finance from 1.9% APR*, and a Technology Upgrade that includes 16-inch ‘Optima’ Alloys and Adaptive Cruise Control. Request your quote online or visit us before December 31st to avail of these offers. Michael Moore Car Sales, Garryhinch Cross, Portarlington, Co. Laois. T. 057 862 4102. W. www.michaelmooreportarlingtonvw.ie Drive your future forward with the 191 T-Roc. From €279 per month.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Volkswagen group enjoy SUV success at Car of the Year 2019 AWARD Volkswagen Group Ireland brands SEAT, ŠKODA and Volkswagen enjoyed a triple success at the 2019 Irish Car of the Year AwardsinassociationwithContinentalTyres in Dublin recently, with three of their SUV offeringsclaimingtheirrespectivetitles. The SEAT Arona was crowned Small Crossover of the Year, rounding off a great year for the car which has been in huge demandwithIrishcustomers.

SEAT brand director Niall Phillips, commenting on the award said; “We have been delighted and pleasantly surprised by the extent of the demand for the new Arona, with demand outstripping supply currently acrossourretailernetwork. “We expect 2019 to be a very strong year for both the Arona and the SEAT brand.” Pricesforthe2019Aronastartfrom€18,415. In the larger, Medium Crossover of the Yearcategory,inaverytoughandcompetitive category, the ŠKODA Karoq came out as the winner. ŠKODA Ireland Brand Director John Donegan said; “we are particularly pleased that the Karoq has won this award given the fiercely competitive nature of this segment and this is the second consecutive year that one of our SUVs has claimed an Irish Car of the Year category award following on from thesuccesslastyearwithKaroq.

- 25th November - National Senior, Junior & Juvenile Even Age Cross Country – National Sports Campus, Abbotstown, Dublin. - 27th November - NIA Live - Abbotstown. Please email laoisathleticspro@gmail. com if your race does not appear on the calendar. BALLYFIN AC LAOIS SENIOR CROSS COUNTRY & JUVENILE RELAYS A great morning of athletics in the beautiful surrounds of Emo Court with its autumnal colours. Ballyfin AC had 18 athletes competing in the juvenile element i.e. underage (U-8) guest race and uneven relay races. Both Juliette Carroll and Conall Dooley participated in the underage category and both were placed high and earned themselves individual medals. The Club had four relay teams - one U-9girls & boys team and two U-11 girls teams.

Up first, the U-9 team of Aoibheann Conroy, Sarah Jane Walsh, Eimear Farrell and Muireann Thompson ran their hearts out to earn themselves team silver. Not to be outdone, the U-9 boys team of Conor Prendergast, Ryan Lanham, Kieran Ryan and Barry O'Loughlin also earned themselves second full team placing. The U-11 girls had a large number of teams competing and all eight girls worked hard for their teams with Team 1 (Aoibheann O'Rourke, Cara Dooley, Jessica Ryan-Downey & Orla Carroll) achieving team silver.Unfortunately, Team 2 (Aimee Rose Conroy, Grace McEvoy, Molly Kelly & Laura McEvoy) came home in 4th placing missing out on a team placing. What a great bunch of juveniles and thanks to the parents for supporting the event. In the Mens Senior Cross Country Championshipswe had six team members competing as is required. The lads gave it everything with Colin Maher winning the race in great style and adding to his trophy cabinet. His team mates of Roibeard Miller, Liam Buggy, Andrew Kehoe, Shane Delaney and Ciaran Keenan gave it everything but were pipped into 4th place by the men from Ballyroan Abbeyleix & District. A great race - well done lads. Well done to Portlaoise AC for a well run event! Onwards to the Masters now - what a great Cross Country season it has been! LEINSTER UNEVEN AND SENIOR CHAMPIONSHIPS The club have a fantastic group of U-11 girls participating at the Leinster Championships in Adamstown, Wexford taking in a distance of 1,500m over cross country terrain.The dedicated bunch include Orla Carroll, Aoibheann O’Rourke, Jessica Ryan-Downey, Grace McEvoy, Aimee Rose Conroy, Grace McEvoy, Molly Kelly and Laura Parnell.The girls will run as individuals, as a Club team and will represent their County along with their County colleagues.It’s a great experience for these girls to run at this level and club officials wish them the very best. STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING TRAINING Strength and Conditioning Training is back for the Winter and will continue in the Ballyfin Community Hall every Wednesday from 8pm to 9pm, bring a weight and an ab wheel if you have one.These classes are great to assist in core strength and compliment other sports as well.€5 per session - well worth it!Please spread the word to anyone who you feel may be interested in coming along.

SENIOR TRAINING If you want to get into running or want to take it up again after a break, all runners are welcome to come along to any of our training sessions.So why not give it a go, come along and get up and running. TRAINING SCHEDULE Tuesday 7.30pm - meet at St Fintans Car Park, Portlaoise (opposite Portlaoise Prison). Wednesday 8-9pm - Strength and Conditioning at Ballyfin Community Hall. Thursday 7.30pm- meet at St Fintans Car Park, Portlaoise (opposite Portlaoise Prison). Sunday 10.30am- meet at Emo Court Car Park.

Training session can vary from 6k or 10k runs, on Road or Grass, or also take in Fartlek sessions. BALLYROAN ABBEYLEIX AND DISTRICT AC LAOIS SENIOR CROSS COUNTRY AND JUVENILE RELAYS Well done to all club athletes who competed in Emo on Sunday last. Well done to our senior ladies who claimed silver team medals in their 5km event with Breda McDonald (5), Kate McDonald (6),Louise Mahoney (7) and Siobhan Burke (9). Also, well done to our men's team who also ran very strong to claim bronze team in their 10km with Cian McDonald (11), Tom Dunne (15), Liam Dunne (16), Noel Burke (24), John Kirwan (25), Shane Bowe (26), Martin McDonald (28) and Paul Burke (32).

Our juveniles were also very impressive today with Leah Dunphy finishing second in the U-8 race. Well done to each Ballyroan Abbeyleix & District juveniles who came to run relays (unfortunately we didn't have full teams). Well done to Emily Dunphy, Ellen O'Mahoney, Hannah Burke, Katie Sheeran, Hannah Cox, Isobel Lawlor, Ayla Morrin, Billy Lawless, Alan Fitzpatrick, Jack Coogan, Eoin Lynam, Josh Cox, James O'Mahoney, Jill Gaughan, Emma Fitzpatrick, Abbey Lalor. BELGIUM CROSS COUNTRY Well done to Sorcha Moloney who finished 6th Junior in the Belgium Cross Country today. Well done to Avril Deegan who claimed a bronze medal in the U-23 ladies.

BALLYROAN 10MILE AND 5KM SANTA RUN The Ballyroan 10 mile road race and 5km run will take place on Saturday December 8th. Check out Facebook for more details. TRAINING Training for all ages in Ballyroan GAA field at 7.30pm every Tuesday. EMO RATH AC COUNTY CROSS COUNTRY RELAYS The club had a good contingent of athletes on show at the County Juvenile relays in Emo Court recently. In the U-8 Open Race Aoileann Ni Comhraidhe and Sarah Bastick both ran excellently and finished in the medal positions. Well done girls. Our Boys U-9 relay team comprising of Darragh Duffy, Ben & Jack Slevin and Raife Eoghan were competing in their first ever County Relay. The lads ran brilliantly, finishing in thirdposition. Well done lads. Our U-13 Girls team comprised of Cliodhna Creegan, Claire McMahon, Louise O’Halloran and Louise Hartnett. The girls ran superbly from start to finish and were unlucky to finish in 4thposition, just outside the medal placings. Our Boys U-13 team comprised of Fionn Fitzpatrick, Sean Gahan, Owen McGarry and Craig Mangan McKenna. The lads all ran brilliantly, finishing thirdoverall in a very competitive race. Well done lads, a superb performance. Katelyn Eoghan ran, as part of a mixed relay team with the Oughaval U-11 girls. Katelyn has been running brilliantly all season and had another great run. Well done Katelyn.

TRAINING Training continues every Monday night 6.45pm-7.45pm for our younger athletes and on Wednesdays from 6.30-7.30pm. Training for our older athletes includes: Strength Training in Emo Community Hall on Wednesdays 7-8pm; Technical Training on Friday Nights in Emo 7-8pm and Performance Squad training in Vicarstown on Sunday mornings 11am-12.30pm. MOUNTMELLICK AC BEAT THE BARGE Nine athletes from Mountmellick AC took part in this year’s annual Beat the Barge 4k race in Vicarstown, with Adam Holden finishing the race in second place overall. This is a great event every year, and 2018 was no exception. The weather was great, and The St Abban's Girls U-15 team in Emo last weekend. Juveniles from Portlaoise AC enjoying their time at the races in Emo last weekend. Michael McCormack from St Abban's AC looking very happy at mile 23 at the Dublin City Marathon.

the refreshments afterwards in Creans were second to none. LAOIS CROSS COUNTRY RELAYS We had only two full teams competing at the recent Laois athletics cross country relay competition in Emo Court, but the event went down very well with all concerned. This is a short run that allows children who normally consider themselves to be sprinters have a go at a cross country race and hopefully gives them a taste for it in the future. CLUB TRAINING You can find us training at the track in Smiths field any Monday or Wednesday from 7-8pm. Contact us with any questions you might have on our club phone at 087-3493503, or check out our Facebook page for our most up to date information - www.facebook.com/ MountmellickAthleticClub/ OUGHAVAL AC TRAINING Juvenile training is on Monday and Wednesday evening from 7-8pm. Enquires can be made to John Scully 085-1742251.

PORTLAOISE AC JUVENILES SHINE IN EMO We had a great crowd of juveniles representing Portlaoise AC on Sunday in Emo Court, where the club won lots of medals in the relay races. Well done to all athletes who competed for the club and a special congratulations to the U-11 boys - Darragh Brady, Harrison Marshall, Daniel Murrell and Daniel Downey who took home a gold medal for Portlaoise in a very competitive 4x500m relay. Portlaoise AC had medal winners all across the board on the day. Also, in the Portlaoise AC U-8 guest race, well done to Grace Cuddy, Lily Reid, Ava McDonald and Jacob Day who all had an enjoyable and excellent race. Thanks again to all athletes who turned up on Sunday and ran brilliantly and gave their best for the club.Finally, a big thanks to the juvenile parents who helped out on the day.

LAOIS SENIOR CROSS COUNTRY Portlaoise were proud to host the Laois Senior Cross Country on Sunday 4th last, and by all means it was a very successful day.Well done to all involved, especiallyMichael Delaney and Joe Walsh also special mention to Mountmellick AC'sNoel Coss for a super job as MC.The ladies event was the first of the senior races, and we got two ladies on the podium along with team bronze,the ever modest Mary Mulhare took the lead from the off, and came home in style to take another title.Grace Reilly came strongly through the field to secure an excellent third spot for the bronze medal.Niamh Quinn, Maria Cuddy and Amy Walsh made up our ladies team on the day, congratulations girls.The men's senior saw us down a few, resulting in us fielding six vets in our team of seven. However, they put in a fine performance to take the silver team medals.Well done to Tony Reilly, Tom Lupton, Aengus Burke, Richie Reid, James Hamm, Paul Cuddy and Noel Marum. Finally, congratulations to St Abban’s on taking both team titles, a good days running all round.

BRITISH AND IRISH MASTERS Saturday next see the British and Irish Masters cross country take place in Swansea, Wales.The race sees the top six from England, Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales battle it out for the honours, with the top four in each age category to score. We have two members selected, Tony Reilly in the O45, while Aengus Burke will compete in the O50 section. Both athletes will hope to help their country get among the medals, best of luck lads. CLUB TRAINING Training for juveniles and seniors as follows: Monday: Seniors St Fintan's: Meet at 8pm - run at 8.15pm.

Tuesday: Juveniles Portlaoise Track: All Ages From 6+ Meet at 7pm. Tuesday: Seniors St Fintan's: Meet at 6.15pm - run at 6.30pm. Wednesday: Seniors Portlaoise Track: Meet at 7pm. Thursday: Seniors Portlaoise Track: Meet at 6pm. Thursday: Juveniles Portlaoise Track: All Ages From 6+ Meet at 7pm. ROSENALLIS KILCAVAN AC LEINSTER CROSS COUNTRY Well done to our three athletes who travelled to Navan on Saturday 27th October last for Leinster Cross Country. Evanna Ryle finished a very impressive 15th position in the U-12 Girls 2500M. Rory Lalor also had a great race finishing in 35th position in the Boys U-14 3000M. Aron Lawlor unfortunately had to pull out of U-12 boys due to injury. Also, well done to Ronan Hyland, now representing Tullamore Harriers, who took silver in U-16 Boys. Big thanks to parents, supporters and athletes for traveling to Navan to represent the club.

LAOIS CROSS COUNTRY RELAYS Well done to our nine athletes who competed in cross country relays in Emo. Big thanks to our athletes and their parents for attending the cross country and thanks to our hosts Portlaoise AC. TRAINING Training Monday and Wednesday evenings in Kilcavan. ST ABBAN’S AC LAOIS SENIOR CROSS COUNTRY AND RELAYS An outstanding day for St. Abban’s AC at Emo Court for the Juvenile Relays and Senior Championships. We did the double winning the Laois Senior Womens and Men Titles. Congratulations to all our athletes that represented the club in both races and of course our future stars in the juvenile events. Our Women won by three points, Cheryl Nolan ran a superb race and was first team member home in 2nd place, Caitlin McDonald had a strong 4th place finish. Sinead Kelly placed 8th and Ailish Brennan was 10th for the team. They were supported by our steadfast athletes Claire Phelan 11th and Breda Mulcahy 13th. Our Men’s team had a convincing win with 35 points. Seán (Proctor) Geoghegan had a great race and was first member home in 3rd position. Behind him was Brian Kelly in 4th, our stalwart Colm Burke was 5th, William Kelly our youngest representative ran an superb race taking 6th place, John Fenlon was 7th and finally, for the team was Stephen Hunter in 10th place. Huge team effort from all our men with great support from the returning Stephen Lawler, Colin Coyne, Conor Barry and Niall English. We had great numbers out in our juvenile relay uneven age groups from U-9 to U-15. A huge effort was made to make up the teams and everyone got their just reward with loads of team medals won. Thank you to Portlaoise AC for hosting the event. DEVELOPMENT DRAW 2018 We need your support for our biggest fundraiser of the year. Three €10 Draws for an opportunity to win €6,500 in cash prizes! Get your tickets in the clubhouse.

COUCH TO 5KM Couch to 5km takes place on Monday & Wednesdays at 7.30pm at the St Abban's track. Suitable for Men & Ladies of all ages and all abilities. Come along and bring a friend, €2 per night. COACHES NEEDED Anybody willing to help out with coaching, AAI have a new list of courses - http://www.athleticsireland.ie /coaching/fixtures/ we can organise training for anyone interested Please contact Catriona at the Club. TRAINING Senior training Tuesday and Friday 7:30 to 9:00pm. Cost will be just €2 per session, contact Bernard, Michael or Gavin for more information. Juvenile training has resumed at the track. Cross Country training begins Sunday 2nd of September at 11:00am in Tolerton, park at Behans. ST MICHAEL’S AC DUBLIN CITY MARATHON 2018 Well done to all the St Michaels AC Athletes who traveled to Dublin on a near perfect day for running. It was cold to start with, but this was eased by the certain business of running a Marathon. We had over 41 one runner’s running this year which is a great reflection on the great training and running by the club. The Dublin City marathon does seem to be St Michaels main club race of the year. This year we had great running throughout and it reflected all the hard work by all runners, with a lot of PBs and also a lot of new first time marathon runners Dave Sweeney who has being instrumental in the marathon training this year produced a pb by over a minute to be the first Michael’s AC athlete to cross the line with a brilliant time of 2:47:34. Well done Dave. Next across the line was a new member Darren Geoghegan with another pb of 3:01:25. Not far off beating the three-hour mark. Well done to Derek Bracken who had a super time of 3:05:57. A big well done also to Johnny Doris on breaking 3:20 in fine style with a time of 3:18:32 and Gary Kelly with a time of 3:19:59, followed by Dave Murphy on 3:20:44. First lady home for Michaels AC was Olivia Sheerin in a good time of 3:46:13. Well done to Karen Phelan who ran 3:58:32. We had some first time DCM participants who came home in super times Alison Galvin in 4:02:34, Kate Finane in 4:09 and Emma Ni Lionnain in 4:11.

We are very proud of everyone’s times and the huge effort all put in. We have to pick out Shane Broderick who only recently recovered from injuries and ran a fine time of 4:27. We also welcomed home Larry Havens who was out in Syria with the Irish Army and did most of his training on a 1.6 km route around his camp. He ran a great time in much colder conditions of 3:57. Everyone put in a great effort to cross the line and all should be proud of their achievements, some had tougher days than they expected, but everyone made it across the line so well done. The support around the course was amazing again this year with St Michael’s athletes and families spread though the course. A big thank you to Chris and Gwen La Cumbre for the photos from mile 22.5 and also to John Corcoran and Monica Corcoran. We had great support all around the course, also from Mick and Geraldine Cullen and Paddy Dempsey. Well done to everyone, we hope everybody is recovering well. Happy Running from all in St Michael's AC.

SENIOR CROSS COUNTRY Well done to Aindriu O Comhraidhe on coming Second in the Senior County Cross Country championships in Emo. Well done to Aindriu. LAOIS INTERMEDIATE AND UNEVEN AGES Well done to all who took to part in the cross country races on recently. Well done to Aindriu O Comhraidhe who added the intermediate title to his recent novice victory. Well done to Poppy Hacket who came 3rd in the U-15 girls 3000m. Well done to Liam Ward who came 4th in the U-11s 2000m race. Well done to Heidi Hacket who came 5th and Louise Ward who came 14th in the U-11s Race. Well done to all from all in Michaels AC.

SENIOR TRAINING Senior training takes place twice each week from 7pm to 8pm.Tuesday training takes place at Emo House – meeting at 7pm in the back-car park. Thursday training takes place in Corrig. New members are always welcome at any time, just turn up at one of our training sessions, and give it a go! Senior members still meet each Saturday morning at 9am in the Lidl car park (beside Odlums) for a long steady run. Distance range from 5K to 20K, and anyone is welcome to join in for an easy run and a friendly chat on the scenic country roads and forest trails around Portarlington, Emo and Killenard.

JUVENILE TRAINING Juvenile Training resumes on September 3rd for Monday and Thursday at 6pm in the Portarlington GAA Centre. ST MICHAELS AC Find us on Facebook (Michaels AC) and send a friend request to keep up to date with all that’s happening. Any questions and comments are welcome by Messaging us on Facebook. Aengus Burke and Tony Reilly who will compete in the British and Irish Masters. Ballyfin AC's strong U-11 girls team taking part at the County Juvenile relays in Emo recently. Rosenallis Kilcavan AC athletes in Emo at the Cross Country. Moira Lee supporting the Mountmellick AC team at the cross country relays in Emo Court last weekend. SPORT ATHLETICS 67

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie SPORT 68 RATHDOWNEY AND ERRILL ACTIVITY HUB YOGA Continues each Monday, from 7-8pm at the Rathdowney GAA clubhouse. Cost is €5 per class. To book your spot contact James on 086-7962177 – Places are limited! PRE XMAS WEIGHT LOSS PROGRAMME WITH ALL4FITNESS Continues each Friday from 7:30pm to 8:30pm. Venue: All4fitness Rathdowney. Cost is €50 for 8 weeks , and this includes: Two weekly classes, goal setting, body fat analysis, weigh-ins. Limited to 20 places. Contact James to book your space on 086-7962177. BOXERCISE This takes place on Thursday night @ 8.15pm and Saturday morning @11.45am. It is limited to 16 spaces. Contact James to book your space on 086-7962177.

HEALTHY IRELAND FUNDING The hub has successfully received a grant from the Healthy Ireland fund, this will see the purchase for equipment to help the roll out of minority sports and also purchase equipment to help existing clubs deal with growing numbers. It will also see the purchase of three advertisement signs to showcase events running within the hub and will be available to use for all groups and clubs working within the hub. Finally the hub will roll out programmes within the primary schools to help engage kids with new sports and deliver a number of taster sessions in rounders, tug of war, golf, badminton and fun movement games for the younger kids. This will all be completed by March 2019. Any questions or queries on this please contact James on 086-7962177 or email: jkelly@laoissports.ie. - - SVT SPORTS HUB SVT YOUTH LEADERS AT ZOMBIE BEAT THE BARGE SVT Youth sport leaders received their Sport Leader Level 2 Award after the Beat the Barge run which they completed on their mid term break earlier this year. This group of sport leaders have over the past two years of SVT Activity & Wellness Hub come along to event after event and helped out in so many ways.

To give you an idea of some events they gladly help organise and assisted at were operation transformation, Easter camp, Bikes & Bites, Athletics Summer camp, Assisting at learn to cycle camp, three day cycling camp in Emo, Fossey Mountain camp out. Canoeing & Kayaking sessions and many more. Congratulations to all of these young people and some are missing as they are off on holiday. This group are also nominated for the youth category in the up coming Laois Community & Voluntary Awards. Best wishes in my eyes you are all winners. Thank to all the parents for your continued support.

First to cross the line at this year’s 4 km Beat the Barge Zombie run was James McAssey in a super time of 0:12:04 receiving his prize money from Suzanne Scully Oughaval AC. We now know the time to aim for in 2019 Beat the Barge run. Beat The Barge Zombie Run had 233 participants registered in the 4 km run. With lots of Families walking also. Fantastic turn out of supporting spectators and a great effort for fancy dress and good to see the amenities been utilised with Kayaking & Canoeing also happening. At Vicarstown Canal Fest & Beat The Barge overall we had 400 people out active in body and mind it was a crisp and fab morning and plenty of room for more next year. Well done to Suzanne & John Scully and Kathleen Sheridan for their huge contribution to the success of the Oughaval AC 7th Beat the Barge in conjunction with SVT Activity & Wellness HUB, a lot of behind the scenes work happens before the event. Thanks to all SVT Committee from Stradbally Vicarstown and Timahoe for their continued help and support with the success of all events this year and all the wonderful sport leaders. Planning is getting on it's way to launch an Operation Transformation 2019 stay tuned and we are all about connecting parishes so all are welcome to join in and create a healthier way of living and healthy communities. Top 5 senior men and women, Top 3 junior men and women. Top 3 U-16 Boys & Girls over the line received prize money and super well done to all participants and everyone who made yesterday a success. Barrowline Cruisers, Creans Vicarstown, Simpson's Gala, Supervalu Stradbally, Laois Sports Partnership, Oughaval AC and all the neighbouring athletics clubs.

- - LEINSTER WHEELCHAIR HURLING TEAM Congratulations Leinster Wheelchair Hurling team who are All Ireland Champions for the third year in a row! Well done to the seven Laois players, Ciaran Cushen, Sean Bennett, Lorcan Madden, Gary O’Reilly, John Scott, Paul Cullen & Tommy White & Paul Tobin. Thanks to their manager Jeff Phelan for all the hard work. RUGBY FOR ALL CAMP 2018 We had a very successful two-day camp in Portarlington Rugby Club recently in the beautiful Autumn sunshine. Great fun and games were had by all participants. A big thank you to Portarlington Rugby Club, Eibhlin, Dave and all the team for looking after us all with soup, sandwiches, drinks and the lovely open fire; Leinster Rugby player Joe Carbury and all his team and the Transition Year students from Colaiste Iosagain. All the children went home happy with a goody bag from Leinster Rugby. See you all next year! DISABILITY INCLUSION TRAINING This takes place on Saturday 17th November from 10am to 4pm in Portlaoise. This is a six-hour workshop designed to give participants ideas and inspiration to adapt their sport and physical activity sessions to make them more accessible and inclusive for children and adults with a disability. For further details please contact Catriona Slattery on 086-7935234.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Portlaoise battle hard to share the spoil with UCD Portlaoise Ladies Hockey Club worked hard to come awaywithadrawagainstUCD 6th on a damp and dark afternoon in Belfield on Sunday,November11. UCD put the pressure on Portlaoise from the start and took the lead in the first half. However, Portlaoise came back strongly and a great score by Susan Fingleton from a short corner brought the sides level in the second half. Portlaoise defended very well in the latter part of the second half to keep UCD out, with great play by Claire Igoe,JennyDeeganandSusan Fingleton.

Portlaoise will play Wicklow in their next league match on 17th November in Wicklow. Wicklow are currently in first place in the league table, two points ahead of Portlaoise so this willbeachallenginggamefor Portlaoise. PORTLAOISE: Linda Monaghan, Karen Fingleton, Susan Fingleton (C), Claire Igoe, Kellie O’Sullivan, Marian O’Boyle, Kate Hyland, Yvonne Hargroves, Orla Dwyer, Emma Brophy, Lucy Dwyer, Jenny Deegan, Jayne Telford, Emma Houlihan. Beale fires four as Stradbally advance Stradbally travelled to Banagher on Sunday morningforthefirstroundof the Counties Cup and in the end won out comfortably in what was a keenly contested contest.

The opening exchanges were well contested but Stradbally took the lead after 15 minutes when Derek Beale took advantage of a poor kick out to send the ball straight back over the home keeper withafirsttimefinish. Banagher had a purple patch themselves and deservedly equalised. A stray pass was picked up by the Banagher midfielder and he finished neatly into the top corner. The first half played out evenly enough after that. Banagher started the second half stronger and very nearly hadtheirsecondgoalbutfora great save from Wayne Comerford.

Stradbally regained the lead shortly afterwards when Derek Beale capitalised on a loose ball to drill home from the left hand side of the box. Beale got his hat-trick goal chipping the Banagher keeper, after running in behind the defence on to a great delivery from Conor Brady. Shortly after that Stradbally had another goal. The energetic Benny Lawlor, who was a thorn in the Banagher sides defence all day, was brought down in the box. Beale dispatched the penalty for his and Stradbally's fourth goal of the game. Banagher got a late consolation goal but the tie wasoveratthatstage.

An overall good team performance on the day from Stradbally who had stand out performances from Benny Lawlor, John Hayden and DerekBeale. TEAM: Wayne Comerford, Colin Beale, Billy Murphy, Ray Mullally, John Hayden, Jimmy Langton, Damien Murphy, Conor Delaney, Podgie Fitzpatrick, Derek Beale, Benny Lawlor. Subs: Conor Brady, John Clancy, Jake Byrne, Aidan Hanrahan, Alan Delaney. Classy Falcons fly high to down Dublin University PortDara Falcons welcomed second placed Trinity to Lea Road in the Leinster League on Sunday and a stunning second half team performance saw them secure an impressive victory while denying the high flying Dublin side a losing bonus point.

The home side had the best of the early exchanges but failed to capitalise on the as the Trinity defence shut down the space that their opponents needed to move the ball wide. Having soaked up that early pressure, Trinity then worked their wayintotheFalconshalfbuta serious of knock ons caused in part by the horrendous weather conditions gave the home side the opportunity to easethepressureonthem. As the game moved towards half time Trinity had a further spell of territorial advantage.Arelentlessattack was met with some excellent tackling from Leanne Caulfield, Siobhán Griffin and Yvonne O Neill that blunted the student’s efforts. But the referee awarded a series of penalties for off side at rucks and eventually Trinity exploited an overlap to score out wide and take a 5-0leadintothebreak. The second half saw the skies clearing which would have been welcomed by the large home crowd who knew that the drier conditions would suit their side’s excitingpassinggame.

It very soon became clear thatthebalanceofpowerwas swingingtowardstheFalcons and their scrum half Nicole Kirwan took control thanks to quick clean ball from her pack and some accurate distribution from the excellent Hannah Mulcahy at out half meant that the Trinity defence started to becomestretched. Outside Centre Orlaith Kielymadesomestronggains with ball in hand but it was her centre partner Caoilfhionn Culliton who got the first Falcons score after fiftythreeminutes. Another slick passing move created confusion in the visitors’ defence and Culliton quickly pounced as she ran a strong hard line through a gap and score under the posts. Mulcahy then added the convertion to givehersidethelead.

Trinity responded but again their efforts were repelled with some outstanding defensive organisation from PortDara and big hits from Andrea Broughan, Elaine Slevin and Celeste Cannon while wingers Michelle Maher and Libby Waldron denied their opposite numbers with a continued lock out in the widechannels. Eventually the defensive efforts were rewarded with a strong turnover from Emma Doolan and the eighteen year old back row player then capitalisedonthatstealwhen she burst through the defensive line with a powerful run and couldn’t be caught as she finished under the sticks. Mulcahy again added the extras and the lead was now 14-5 after sixty five minutes.

Trinity looked to have found a way around that defenceastheyputwidthand pace onto their latest assault only to see their winger put into touch with a perfect tacklefromLibbyWaldron. From the resulting line out, PortDara secured the ball and again went about their business with patience. Theymovedtheballwideand made yards with every phase of play. Orla O Donovan workedhardfromfullbackas she carried the ball aggressively and although she was denied a line break she managed to make gains and presented the ball wall forhersupportplayerswhich allowed scrum half Nicole Kirwan to maintain the pace and keep her opponents on the back foot. The Falcons again worked the ball wide and a clever kick over the top from Mulcahy put the Trinity defence under pressure. A ferociouschasefromCulliton andWaldronallowedthemto secure possession and Culliton then scored her fourth try in two games to securethewin That result sees PortDara continuing their march up the league table and into the top four only three points behind second placed Clontarf who they meet in December. Coach Cassie Dunne was delighted with her side’s performance and said that with no game next weekend she will be using that time to build on this latest performance. “We were excellent today. The girls showed remarkable resilience and energy in defence and the way that we used our own possession in thesecondhalfreallypleased me. Everything that we did today we did as collective with no weak links. What excites me most is the fact that I know that there is better to come from this groupofplayers”. PORTDARA FALCONS: Andrea Broughan, Leanne Caulfield, Elaine Slevin, Celeste Cannon, Amy Guilfoyle, Yvonne O Neill, Siobhán Griffin, Emma Doolan, Nicole Kirwan, Hannah Mulcahy, Libby Waldron, Caoilfhionn Culliton, Orlaith Kiely, Michelle Maher, Orla O’Donovan. Ellen Enright, Sarah Pickford, Noelle Doody, Allanah O’Toole, Cassie Dunne.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie U-16 girls battle it out for one point win Local derby game in PortarlingtonasKestrel’sU16 playedPortlaoisePanthers. The game started off at good fast pace as Aishling Fleming pushed the ball up the court the hole game which was vital for the Portlaoise side, with the side either finishing on the fast break or there inside players Aimee Lewis, Niamh Friel and Eimear Marum all finished well under the basket! The nimble Portlaoise side contained the Kestral’s fast break with Fleming puttinggreatballpressureon their guard and Mairead O’Byrne And Heather Bennett we’re super on the team help defence. The Portlaoise battled from start to finish but the opposition had an answer for every play! A great work rate display fromKeevaFingeltonwasone of the many crucial factors with Portlaoise coming out with a one point win! It was a great team effort to come awaywithbraggingrights! TEAM: Caoimhe Sweeney, Aishling Fleming, Naimh Freil, Eimear Maurm, Amiee Lewis, Megan Fitzpatrick, Mairead O Byrne, Keeva Fingleton, Isabel Duff, Jodie Kavanagh, Heather Bennett, Maria Preston COACH: Kyle Burke, Aoife O Malley Portlaoise ladies continue unbeaten run Portlaoise National League Ladies team continued their unbeaten run to 4-0 after comfortably overcoming Fabplus Northwest in Letterkenny. This was an extremely long journey for the team to take so it was always going to be tough to come out with a big performance.

Itwasaverytentativestart to the game with both sides missing early chances. Yet again, it was Catherine Ashe who hit the first score of the game and she has done so in all games previously. Jamie Sherburne settled into the game with a couple of steals butwasunfortunatelyunable to convert some scores of her own. Sinead Melia then pulled a great rebound and gave an outlet pass to Sherburnewhichendedupis Ashe’ hands and she hit the first three pointer of the game. Claire Melia settled into the game as she pulled numerous rebounds on the defensive end and then scored some great baskets of her own on the offensive end. Fabplus scored some nice baskets inside the key with theirAmericancausingsome problems for the Portlaoise side. The quarter ended on a scorelineof15-13.

Ciara Byrne came flying into this game as she quickly grabbed a super offensive rebound and put the ball straight back in for two points. Sharon Melia had her best game to date as she dominated on the defensive end. Fabplus continued to sit in a zone defence and this would normally play into the hands of Portlaoise but the side struggled to hit their previous form from the three point line. Portlaoise continued to move the ball well and began to use the inside presence of the Melia sisters. Claire grabbed a few scores of her own and as the defence began to collapse down low, this opened up for Byrne to hit a big three. A great steal by Ciara Wheeler let to the assist to Sinead Melia for a great fast break score. Portlaoise led 30-22 at halftime.

Portlaoise always like to come out firing in the third quarter and they continued to do that in this game. The teams defence had upped theirgameandthetempowas much greater. Sherburne got down the floor and pulled up and hit a great jump shot which quickly followed by a fast break score for Maeve Cahillane. Sherburne and Cahillane moved the ball well between eachother and Cahillane stepped up this quarter hitting a big three which really hurt the opposition. Coach Peter Duignan opted for a box and one defence which Fabplus struggled to deal with on offence. Dee Tomlinson worked really hard under the boards and she drew numerous fouls from the opposition. Cahillane once againhitanotherthreewhich put Portlaoise up by 19. Portlaoise continued to dominateasAshehitanother three followed by a two pointerassistedbyCahillane. Thequarterended49-26. The final quarter saw a dominant display by the young Shauna Dooley. The teamtookawhiletogetonthe scoreboard in this quarter but it was Dooley who producedagreatfinishaftera strong move under the basket. Tomlinson and Dooley continued to draw fouls and they happily converted their free throws. Wheeler got herself on the scoreboard with a great two points to the delight of her teammates after she has just returned from injury. Dooley hit a great floater with a converted free throw followed by a strong drive to the basket for two. The game ended on a scoreline of 66-42.

Thiswasagreatwinonthe road for Portlaoise but greater competition lies ahead next weekend away to Maree of Galway. Maree have been dominating the league and have been beating most teamsby30+points.Theyare without doubt the favourites in the league. Portlaoise are looking forward to the game and being the underdogs. All support is greatly appreciated and a great game isinstore. Portlaoise Panthers vs Maree, Calasanctius College 17:00 The Under 16 girls squad 32 31 66 42 SPORT BASKETBALL 70 PANTHERS KESTRALS PORTLAOISE PANTHERS FABPLUS NORTH WEST U-18 boys take stong victory in Kildare The Portlaoise boy's U/18 basketball team travelled to play Kildare Gliders in the Midland Area League competition.

The game started at a hectic pace with both teams playing well, Portlaoise had good performances from Glenn Comerford and Aaron Murphy.Inthenextcoupleof minutes scores were at a premium with both defensivesworkingverywell. Portlaoise were eventually rewarded for their hard work with baskets from Conor Byrne and Astijus Zemaitis. Kildare also got a couple of good baskets to see the teams level on a few occasions. Portlaoise continued playing well through Conor Byrne and Aaron Murphy. The last couple of minutes in the quarter saw the Panthers boy's up the tempo running the ball at every opportunity to finish with good baskets from Tom Gbenoba and Aaron Murphy to see them open a 4 point lead. 15 points to 11 points. The second quarter saw Portlaoise settle quickly with a couple of fine baskets from Astijus Zemaitis and Sam Wynne. They continued to dominate the quarter with strong defensive that turned over the ball on several occasions resulting in baskets from Aaron Murphy and Conor Byrne. As the halftime whistle approached Portlaoise opened up a 13 point lead thanks to good workfromDarraghBeereand SamWynne.

The second half saw the game open up into a good contest with both teams playing well, exchanging baskets, Portlaoise got scores through Glenn Comerford and Aaron Murphy. As the quarter went on Portlaoise upped the tempo again with strong defensive denying the Kildare lads scoring opportunities while at the other end they kept the scoreboard ticking over with good work from Bright Osadolor and Tom Gbenoba. Portlaoise were now in full flow with baskets coming from Conor Byrne who was eventually top scorer of the game with an excellent 19 points. The last quarter saw both teams relax with the final outcome in little doubt, Portlaoise went on to run the ball at every opportunity resulting in baskets from Astijus Zemaitis and Sam Wynne. Kildare to their credit never gave up battling for every ball and were rewarded with a few good baskets but in truth never really looked like they could bridge the gap as the Panthers lads finished the game strong with baskets coming Tom Gbenoba and Glenn Comerford to help their team go on to a well deservedwin.

A well deserved win The Portlaoise boy's U/18 basketball team travelled to play Old Leighlin in the Kilkenny Area League competition. Old Leighlin started the better with the first couple of baskets. Portlaoise were slow to get on the scoreboard despite good work from Glenn Comerford and Tom Gbenoba. They continued to work hard and were rewarded with baskets coming from James Phelan after good work from Gary Morrissey and Bright Osadolor. As the quarter went on the Panthers lads started to dominate with strong defensive that turned over the ball on several occasions to see them rewarded with baskets from Astijus Zemaitias and Trevor Swayne. The second quarter sawPortlaoisesettledquickly with baskets from Astijus Zemaitis and Sam Wynne. Old Leighlin were struggling against the huge defensive pressureasPortlaoiseturned over the ball on several occasions resulting in baskets from Aaron Murphy and Conor Byrne. As the halftime whistle approached Portlaoisewereinfullcontrol and went on to open up a significant lead after great work from their ball handler Gary Morrissey resulting in scores from Pierce Bolger HindsandTrevorSwayne. The first few minutes of thesecondhalfsawbasketsat apremiumasbothdefensives wereontop.Portlaoiseupped the tempo again with fine shooting from Sam Wynne and James Phelan playing a Captain'spart.OldLeighlinto their credit continued working hard but lacked the final touch to put points on the scoreboard. As the quarterwentonthePanthers lads were growing in confidence as they ran the floor at every opportunity to finish with baskets from Trevor Swayne and Bright Osadolor. The last quarter saw Portlaoise control the ball as they extended their lead with baskets from Gary Morrissey and James Phelan with some fine shooting. Old Leighlin to their credit never gave up battling for every ball but they never really looked like they were going to troublethePortlaoiselads.As the game to a close James Phelan make a couple of strong moves to the basket to finish with fine scores to see him top scorer of the game with an excellent 26 points to help his team go on to a well deservedwin.

TEAM: Trevor Swayne, Rian O'Connell, Pierce Bolger Hinds, Gary Morrissey, Glenn Comerford , Sam Wynne, Conor Byrne, James Phelan , Aaron Murphy, Astijus Zemaitias, Tom Gbenoba. John Heffernan, Bright Osadolor, Adam Ryan, Coach Alan Comerford Portlaoise comes out on top after titanic battle with Fr Mathews The Portlaoise Panthers Men's National League team played host to one of Corks best known basketball clubs, Fr Mathews in St Mary's hall lastSaturdaynight. The game started at a hectic pace with both teams running the floor at every opportunity, Panthers were off the mark early with good shooting from their American Mike Pierre and a big threepointer from Gary Morrissey. As the quarter went on they continued to keep the scoreboard ticking over with fine shooting from Mantas Vilimas and he becameproviderashorttime later as he made a good move to the basket and at the last second picked out the Panthers big man coming through the middle to see James Gormley dunk the ball home to the delight of the home supporters. Fr Mathews were also playing well, particularly their shooter Michael Mc Ginn whogotfourthreepointersin this quarter alone. As the quarter the Cork lads got the final basket to edge out in front by 2 points. 23 points to 21points.

The second quarter saw head coach Shane O Neill introduce some fresh players to the Panthers line up in an effort to keep the pace of the game up and it worked to great effect as first their Captain Jack Dooley hit a big threepointerandfollowedup with a strong move to the basket to finish in style. Also one of their young guns Liam Kinsella had a huge couple of minutes with great stops at the defensive end and some mighty offensive rebounding that he put back up to finish with baskets. Portlaoise were now dominating for the first time with great team defensive while at the other end their American Mike Pierre was making it look easyasheput6pointsinarow on the scoreboard. Fr Mathews seemed to get caught with the intensity of the Panthers lads not to mention the noise of the home supporters. They were struggling as they missed several opportunities and indeed were restricted to 9 points only in this quarter. Portlaoise on the other hand tooktheiropportunitieswith JamesGormleyfinishingwell after good work from Jack DooleyandKyleBurketohelp their team to 27 points in this quartertoseethemleadby16 points.48pointsto32points. The second half saw both teams playing well, exchanging baskets, Mantas Vilimas and Mike Pierre put scores up for the home team. The game had slowed from the hectic pace of the first half and was turning into a more offensive based game with both teams using up the 24 second clock before they attempted to score. Again for the home side it was the duo of Pierre and Vilimas who since the start of the season have developed a good understanding of each other's game, finding each other to finish with some excellent baskets. As the quarterwentonitwasbasket for basket with Sean Condon and Liam Kinsella finishing well after some great offensive boards. The fouls were starting to mount on both sides with Kyle Burke andJamesGormleyhavingto sit down for the home team but the Panthers continued playing well through Trevor Swayne and Jack Dooley. As the quarter came to a close Portlaoise extended their lead to 20 points with Mike Pierre putting in some brilliant moves to finish with baskets that would eventually see him as top scorer for his team with an excellent 29 points. The last quarter saw Fr Mathews come out strong to get the first few baskets. Portlaoise were paying well but the final shot did not drop on several occasionsdownthefloor.The game started to swing towardstheCorkteamforthe first time and in the next few minutestheybroughtthegap rightdownto5points.Atime out by Coach O Neill for the home club seemed to settle them as they went on to get goodbasketsthroughMantas Vilimas and Mike Pierre. As the game went on it was turning into a titanic battle with every ball contested. Panthers suffered a major blow with their big man James Gormley being fouled out but Sean Condon and Jack Dooley were putting in huge performances on the defensive end while Mike Pierre and Mantas Vilimas scored to maintain their 5 point lead. Fr Mathews went onafullcourtpressinthelast couple of minutes to try to bridgethegapandgotitdown to 3 points but that was as good as it got for them as they were reduced to fouling to stop the clock. Portlaoise held their nerve with Pierre getting a couple of vital free throws and Jack Dooley playing a Captain part to get the last score of the game to help his team go on to a well deservedwintothedelightof thehomesupporters. TEAM: Jack Dooley (Capt), Liam Kinsella, James Gormley, Rian O Connell, Pierce Bolger Hinds, Kyle Burke, Sean Condon,Edvinas Roscenkovas, Mantas Vilimas , Gary Morrissey , Shane Buggie, Trevor Swayne, Conor Byrne, James Phelan , Dylan Dunne, Mike Pierre, Coach Shane O Neill A great team performance in Waterford The Portlaoise boy's U/12 basketball team travelled to Kilkenny toplay Waterfordin the Kilkenny Area League competition.

Waterford got the better start with the first two scores despite good work from Sam Menendez and Jack Fennell. As the quarter went on there was nothing between these two well organised teams with both playing well, exchanging baskets, David Apopei finished with scores after good work from his team mates Luke Bowe and Riley Comerford. Portlaoise finished the quarter strong running the floor at every opportunity to finish with baskets from Riley Comerford and Luke Bowe to seethemleadby4points.The secondquartersawanewfive players from each Club take to the floor and it was the Panthersladswhostartedthe better with baskets coming from Oran Masterson and Christian Webb. Portlaoise began to dominate with good performances from Callum Kernan and Jayden Bowe. Waterford were unable to breakdown the tough defensive work from the Panthers lads. Portlaoise on the other hand keep the scoreboard ticking over with fine shooting from Dinny Troy and Oran Masterson who put 10 points on the scoreboard in this quarter alone. Portlaoise were now in full control and in hindsight this quarter saw the winning and losing of the game as the Portlaoise lads put 16 points onthescoreboardbutequally as important restricted Waterford to a single basket with some great team defensive.

The second half opened up into a good running game with both teams playing well, exchanging baskets, Jack Fennell finished off some good moves with baskets while David Apopei got fine scores after good work from Brayan De Sousa and their Captain Fionn Stack. As the quarter came to a close Portlaoise continued to dominate the game with strong defensive and some fineshootingattheotherend from Luke Bowe and Jack Fennell. The last quarter saw Portlaoise continue to play well with Riley Comerford and Luke Bowe putting in good performances on the defensive end while at the other end they kept the scoreboard ticking over with baskets from Callum Kernan andOranMastersonwhowas eventually top scorer of the game with an excellent 16 points. As the game went on Waterford to their credit never gave up battling for everyballandworkedhardto create opportunities but could not capitalise with baskets. Portlaoise finished thegamestrongwiththefinal score coming from Oran Mastersontohelphisteamgo on to a well deserved win in what was a very good team performance.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie MSL EAST 1 U11 ABBEYLEIX UTD PORTLAOISE ATHLETIC The Portlaoise Athletic u11s took an almost full-strength squad over to the excellent facilities in Fr. Breen Park in Abbeyleix on Saturday last to take on Abbeyleix Utd in their MSL East league fixture. The ongoing commitment and dedication of these Portlaoise players, and their parents, is wonderful to see as, yet again, players had to make do with a single half of football, or less. These shortened appearances are not ideal but each and every one of the players came away from the game on Saturday with their reputations enhanced after a simply phenomenal team performance.

Ethan Kelly once again started in goals, his development there this season has been very impressive. Kayden Carroll and Jack Murtagh, both having superb seasons of their own, marshalled the defence superbly with their timing and decision making, in particular, being of a very high standard. The midfield trio of captain Dawid Nowodka, Artiom Volkov and Luke Fagan were in an all-action mood and they fought hard for everything, in both attack and defence. They were ably assisted by Dee Harding, who put in an excellent shift on the right. Darren Mbeng, in his first season of league football, put in a wonderful performance up front also. Portlaoise applied pressure from the off and after a series of corners Volkov opened the scoring with a smart finish from 10 yards. The lead was doubled shortly afterwards. From a move that began with a short Kelly kick out and involved four other players in the build-up, Mbeng fired home to finish a goal that would grace any game. A miscommunication at the back let Abbeyleix in for a goal of their own, but Mbeng restored Portlaoise’s two goal cushion by finishing off yet another passing move that had started deep in their own half.

As happens in most of their matches this season, the entire team was replaced at half time. Eoghan Kennedy took over from Mbeng up front and wasted no time in following his teammate’s example by firing home a double. His first was an exquisite lob over the keeper from a tight angle and his second was a clinical left footed strike to the bottom corner. In between, the livewire Josh Dempsey had fired home a fine left footed goal of his own, the first of another hattrick from this fine young player. While there may have been an element of luck about his second, a speculative strike from inside his own half, there was no doubting the class of his third, a thunderbolt from distance that gave the ‘keeper no chance.

Cian Fitzpatrick and Alex Moore were in determined mood in defence, giving plenty of protection to Ben Peacham in the goals. Peacham was brought out the field later in the second half and would have a bigger impact on the game at that stage. Ryan Greene and Jan Gdowski shoed the full range of their skills on the flanks, allowing Sean Conka to dictate matters in the centre. It was Conka who scored the goal of the game, tapping home after a lightning fast counter attack that involved superb interplay between Peacham and Dempsey, with Dempsey’s left-footed cross making Conka’s job a straightforward one. Peacham had earlier fired home with a sublime strike off the outside of his left boot and he finished the scoring by firing home a rebound after some excellent work in midfield.

PORTLAOISE ATH: Ethan Kelly, Kayden Carroll, Jack Murtagh, Dawid Nowodka, Artiom Volkov, Luke Fagan, Darren Mbeng, Dee Harding, Ben Peacham, Alex Moore, Cian Fitzpatrick, Ryan Greene, Sean Conka, Jan Gdowski, Eoghan Kennedy, Josh Dempsey. MIDLANDS U15 EAST DIVISION MUCKLAGH PORTLAOISE AFC This Portlaoise AFC team made their maiden voyage to the famously haunted Charleville Castle estate at the edge of Tullamore to play Mucklagh hoping this fixture would not cause a scare in their quest to maintain their 100% league record. The bumpy patchy playing surface itself was to give both sides a fright at first but after the rain that fell on the previous day, it was quite dry and a bonus to be playing. Portlaoise spent the opening minutes playing in the Mucklagh half but were not able to get a real chance and were already guilty of drifting offside - a trait that would dog them throughout the game.

Kieran O’Donnell crossed a nice ball from the halfway line on the right side to find Robbie Farrell on the penalty spot and he was unlucky to see his first time guided volley go just wide left. This was the first sniff at goal. The game was very congested in midfield. Mucklagh were trying to put it up to their visitors and a slow reaction at the back between keeper and defence for AFC, which pops up from time to time, allowed Mucklagh to win a corner against the run of play but it was well cleared by Imran Shitta.

AFC took 15 minutes to take the pressure off themselves a little by making it 0-1 when Robbie Farrell won the ball well on the left and crossed it to Ben Doyle on the far left and Ben floated a nice ball in for Jamie Toman to head it home looping over the keeper. Mucklagh won the ball in midfield seconds after tip off but Colin McEvoy was there to break down the attack to keep the lead intact. Kanye Tshula was linking up very well with Lee Smyth on the left side gaining ground and keeping the ball out of AFC’s half.

The whistle blew and it was 1-3 at Half Time. Mucklagh sufferered instant heartache after the break with several substitute changes for AFC all linking up to get the fourth goal. Ben McDonald and TJ Delaney gave Cian Moore the ball and Cian did well to finish from the right corner of the box to the bottom left corner of the goal. 1-4 and daylight at last for AFC. Portlaoise pulled away after that with goals from Ben McDonald, TJ Delaney and Thomas Swords providing for s comfortable win.. AFC were value for the winning margin but Mucklagh contested throughout and their number seven was trying to get something started for his team.

Referee’s comments afterwards singled out Ben McDonald for his control and balance for the exquisite seventh goal from distance and general balance in the second half would earn him his Man Of The Match. Many good performances also with Imran Shitta superb in the middle and domination at the back from Colin McEvoy, Lee Smyth and Kieran O’Donnell. Noted also were hat trick scorers Jamie Toman and Cathal Lee who were relentless in their pursuit of goals. Credit to Referee Brian James who gave better commentary than Sky Sports throughout constantly and fairly coaching both sides and keeping the game flowing as he does each time and doesn’t need VAR to get most offsides right. Well done.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie GAADigest COURTWOOD LOTTO: 8-11-2018 - Jackpot: €6,400. No jackpot winner. Numbers; 3, 15, 16, 18. No €20 winner this week. Next week's jackpot: €6,600 Thanks to all who supported the lotto last week. INTERMEDIATE FOOTBALL: Well done to our intermediate footballers on their first round Leinster club championship win up in Ardee on Saturday. It was a hard fought affair against the very sporting and worthy opponents that St Mochta’s were. A huge thanks to the massive support that travelled up the M7, M50 and M1 to support us. You really were the difference in those tense closing stages.

On an emotional day, when we remembered our colleague Micheál with a minutes silence before the throw in, once again it all worked out! #newbridgeornowhere SCÓR NA NÓG: It's that time of year again! Scór is back and your club needs you! As usual, the Scór season kicks off with the under 17 competition, Scór na nÓg. Anyone born on or after 1st January 2002 is eligible to take part. If you're interested, please contact our club's Cultural and Irish Officer, Siobhan Byron McEvoy on 087 2726245. She would love to hear from you if you think you’d like to take part Laois Scór na nÓg will take place on Friday the 23rd of November in St Fintan’s Hall Mountrath. This competition is open to all GAA members of 17 years (under 17 on 1/1/19) or younger who can dance, sing, tell a yarn, play an instrument or be part of a novelty group and there is also a quiz competition.

For your information, Scór competitions are organized along similar lines to hurling and Gaelic football championships where the following events take place: Rince Fóirne (Céilí Dancing); Amhránaíocht Aonair (Solo Singing); Ceol Uirlise (Instrumental Music); Aithriseoirecht/Scealaíocht (Recitation/Storytelling); Bailéad Ghrúpa (Ballad Group); Leiriú (Novelty Act); Rince Seit (Set Dancing);Tráth na gCeisteanna (Table Quiz). SYMPATHY: Our sympathies are extended to our current players Niall Dunne, Alan Kinsella, Paddy and Colm Wilson and their families on the recent sad losses of their relatives, Mrs Mary Kennedy, Ballyouskill/Attanagh, David Boland, Nurney and Tommy Donoher, Rath. May they all rest in peace. O'DEMSPEY'S DINNER DANCE: O'Dempseys GFC Dinner Dance will take place on Saturday the 26th of January in Judge Roy Beans, Killenard. Please save the date! More information to follow in the coming weeks.

JUVENILE HAMPER: Juvenile Christmas hamper tickets are now available to collect off any committee member or contact Tommy Fallon on 0870946699. AGM: The Annual General Meeting (AGM) of O’Dempseys GFC will be held in the clubhouse on Saturday the 1st of December at 8pm. Nomination and Motion forms will be available in the clubhouse on Monday nights or from any committee member. ALL club members, parents, supporters and potential new members are invited and encouraged to attend in order to reflect on the last twelve months. Looking forward to seeing you there. LOTTO RESULTS: November 5 - Numbers were: 03, 12, 20, 30. No Jackpot winner. Match 3 winner's this week were Eddie Kelly, Niall Byrne. Promoter - Marie Fallon. Next weeks Jackpot: €5800. Thanks for your continued support of our weekly lotto. SARSFIELDS LAOIS GAA AWARDS NIGHT: Congratulations to Sarsfields’ Ciara O’Loughlin who has been selected as Laois LGFA Senior Club player of the year for 2018. Ciara has played with Sarsfields since it’s foundation in 1995 and has won county medals with the Club at U-14, U-16, Minor, Junior, Intermediate and Senior level. She won Leinster Club Championships in Junior, Intermediate and Senior and was a member of the Laois senior panel for many years including the team that defeated Mayo in the All-Ireland Senior final in 2001. In 2018 Ciara played a dual role as goalkeeper and selector/coach with the management team along with Ger O’Flaherty, Mick Burke and Pat Dalton.

The awards will be prese7nted at a the Laois GAA Annual awards night in the Midland Park Hotel in Portlaoise on Friday. LAOIS SCOR SCÓR NA NÓG: The competition will take place on Friday, November 23 in St Fintan’s Hall Mountrath. This competition is open to all GAA members of 17 years or younger who can dance, sing, tell a yarn, play an instrument or be part of a novelty group. At the request of participating clubs, we are also running the table quiz on the night at the very start of the programme. An entrant for the table quiz is four club members per team. If you have more than one team in your club, we would advise you to run off a local quiz and let the winners go forward. So why not get your club involved? For your information, Scór competitions are organized along similar lines to hurling and Gaelic football championships where the following events take place: Rince Fóirne (Céilí Dancing); Amhránaíocht Aonair (Solo Singing); Ceol Uirlise (Instrumental Music); Aithriseoirecht/Scealaíocht (Recitation/Storytelling); Bailéad Ghrúpa (Ballad Group); Leiriú (Novelty Act); Rince Seit (Set Dancing); Tráth na gCeisteanna (Table Quiz) The winning team in each event {bar Table Quiz} will go on to compete in the semifinals for Leinster in Allenwood on December 9th at 2.30pm, whilst the Leinster Final will take place in mid-January. The winning table quiz team will automatically go straight through to the All-Ireland in Castlebar. To win an All-Ireland title is seen as a great achievement and honor for any club. So, don’t forget the date, Friday November 23rd. Registration will take place from 6.30pm, with the proceedings starting at 7pm sharp, i.e. the table quiz. Hope to see you all there. For more information on Scór, please leave your name into the county board office 057 86 60674 and a member of the scor committee will contact you directly.

We would encourage clubs to try to get organised for this event as soon as possible. Your club has received 2 of the new Scór booklets via your club secretary so please get someone in the club to take it on. A notice in your local shop or on your Club's face book page might elicit interest by individuals, fans or other interested parties. PORTLAOISE LADIES FOOTBALL: Our AGM was held on November 5th in Rathleague and the following were elected as officer's. Chairperson: Cyril Muligan; Vice-chairperson : Olga Loughman; Secretary: Martina Phelan; Treasurer: Ray Hanamy; Registrar: Yvonne o Reilly; PRO: TBC. The club reflected on a successful year appearing in senior, minor, u16 and u 12 County A grade Finals.

SCÓR NA NÓG: Scor na nÓg in St FIntan's Hall, Mountrath on Friday 23rd November. Registration at 6.30pm. STRADBALLY CLUB LOTTO: Lotto Result. 3, 15, 16, 18. No jackpot winner, €20 winners Maeve Delaney, Seamie Hewitt, Golly Keeffe Jackpot next week €6,600. ANNUAL GOLF OUTING: Our annual golf outing takes place on Friday 16th Nov please contact Billy Delaney to book your place. THE ROCK LOTTO: Jackpot €2,900. Numbers drawn 5, 6, 11, 26. No winner. Five €20 winners - John Jestin, Sharon Hartnett, Ciaran Maguire, Eamonn Scott, Pippa Conlon. Next week jackpot €3,000. AUCTION: Our Annual Auction takes place on Sunday 18th of November at 2pm. This is a major fundraiser for the club so all donations are greatly appreciated. All donations can be dropped to the club house or given to a committee member TRUMERA SANTA'S GROTTO EVENT: Trumera Community Centre are holding a Santa Grotto event on Sunday 9th December from 5pm to 6.30pm. €5 per child abd they will receive a present from Santa. Xmas Jumpers Optional with all proceeds in aid of Trumera Community Hall. All welcome to attend on the night with Music, Tea/Coffee, Mince Pies & Refreshments. Christmas Hamper raffle on the night also.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie O'Moore's campaign comes to end O’Moore's Leinster Championship campaign came to an end on Sunday afternoon at the semi final stage as Young Irelands of Kilkenny had too much for the Laois Camogie champions. Young Irelands lined out with previous Kilkenny senior player Sarah Ann Quinlan who finished the game with eight points to her name while Kilkenny Intermediate player Steffi Fitzgerald lined out at half forward. Conditions were tough for both sides as heavy down pours of rain before the game made the under foot conditions difficult in Rosenallis.

Despite being two points down at the break a goal from O’Moores forward Erin Murray after 36 minutes put the O’Moores girls back on thefrontfoot. However theystruggledto hold on to this lead and the Kilkenny side had a greater scoringthreatupfronttowin outintheend. Young Irelands got off to thebrighterstartinthisgame andafterfourminutesofplay hadtheirfirstscorethanksto a ’45 from Sarah Ann Quinlan. O’Moores responded a minute later when Erin Murray found Niamh Gleeson free to point forherside.

Quinlan added two more frees to her tally before Erin Murrayfoundthetargetafter Joyce Dunne cut through the YoungIrelandsdefence. A Mary Keating free then broughtthesidesbacklevelat 0-3eachafter15minutes. Young Irelands were causing some trouble for the O’Moores defence as Sarah Ann Quinlan and Ciara O’Keefe both pointed for theirside. Amy Loughman did respond with the score of the game from the 65 metre line but it was the Kilkenny club who went in leading at the break 0-6 to 0-4. O’Moores backs then got caught in possession just after the restart as an interception by Steffi Fitzgerald resulted in her firing over another point for herside.

O ‘Moores then brought the game back level after 32 minutes of play when a Laura Peake shot was saved and ErinMurraywasonhadhand to pick up the rebound and for her shot to land past Hannah Brennan in the YoungIrelandsgoal. O’Moores then took the lead after 36 minutes after some good work from Joyce Dunne which resulted in a welltakenpoint. Mary Keating added anotherfreetohertallyasthe Laois Champions went 1-6 to 0-7pointsahead. However Young Irelands fought back as Sarah Ann Quinlan added another point forherside.

A Steffi Fitzgerald point and a free from Quinlan had theKilkennychampionsback intheleadagain. With five minutes left on the clock it was only a point that separated the sides as Young Irelandslead 0-11 to 1-7. However O’Moores couldn’t push on and it Young Irelands who finished the stronger in the end with further points fromQuinlanandFitzgerald. Thiswasdisappointingfor O’Moores as a number of these girls only lost the Leinster Senior Football Final with Sarsfields last weekend. SCORERS: YOUNG IRELANDS: Sarah Ann Quinlan 0-8(four frees, two ’45), Steffi Fitzgerald 0-3, Miriam Brennan and Ciara O’Keeffe 0-1 each. O’MOORES: Erin Murray 1-1, Mary Keating 0-2(two frees), Niamh Gleeson, Joyce Dunne, Alison McEvoy(free) 0-1 each.

TURNING POINT The response which Young Irelands made after they went down by two points. After leading the whole game to suddenly be down by in the space of five minutes was difficult to come back from. They didn’t panic and points from Quinlan and Fitzgerald were vital as they brought their side back into the lead. TALKING POINT Maybe the successive amount of matches caught up on O’Moores with a lot of these players having matches every weekend between the football and camogie. Young Irelands finished out the game much the stronger in the last five minutes which was the real difference between the sides. WHAT NOW?

O’Moores bow out of the Leinster Championship and will have to wait until next year as they try to retain their county title. SPORT GAELIC GAMES 76 O'MOORE'S YOUNG IRELANDS EXPRESS REPORTER at Rosenallis 1-7 0-13 LEINSTER INTERMEDIATE CAMOGIE SEMI-FINAL

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Dempseys set the tone early in Kelly Cup Final From the time the eventual winners eased into a four point lead inside six minutes there was an inevitability about this Kelly Cup final in CrettyardonSaturday. Two points by Micheál Finlay followed by one each from Barry Howlin and Matthew Finlay set the tone fortheencounter In fact only for the acrobatics of Stradbally keeper, Jack Larkin, the Portarlingtonsidecouldhave beenevenfurtherahead. OntenminutesStradbally got off the mark when Colm Kelly slipped the ball to Jack Duggan who bisected the postsforapoint.

WhenMatthewFinlayand Kelly traded points it looked as if Stradbally were getting a footholdinthegame. They were winning dirty ball and more of the 50-50 exchanges than had been the caseintheopeningquarter. Sensing the mood O’Dempsey’s slipped into another extra gear and added onfurtherpoints. They could well have found the net on two occasions but with the scoreboard ticking over an eager forward line was happy totaketheirpoints. At half-time O’Dempsey’s were good value for their 0-12 to 0-8 interval lead but after enjoying their dominant spell they would have been only too aware they hadn’t putthegame tobed.

Colm Kelly was Stradbally’s big dangerman. He pulled the strings for his side but they needed more. Instead O’Dempsey’s Liam Whelehan went to punch over the bar but his effort fell under the crossbar and into the net for a goal which was quite rightly disallowed. The three-pointer arrived on 37 minutes when the Stradbally defence was split wideopen. Micheál Finlay could have taken the goal himself but just to make sure he off-loaded to Matthew who guided the ball in without fuss. A bit like the Dublin bus where you wait so long for a first one then two come relatively close together this is what transpired for the O’Dempsey’sgoals. In the space of a minute Liam Whelehan and Kelly exchanged points and this was followed up by a Mark Barry goal from close range.

If there was any chance of a Stradbally fight-back it was gone now. O’Dempsey’s all but settled for what they had and like aboxer whohasdoneenough he held his ground and took all Stradbally could throw at them. In addition to Kelly, Eoin Buggy and Deegan got on the scoresheet to take the bad lookatit. That was all they had. O’Dempsey’s finished with a flourish with Barry Kelly and DaithiHowlinconcludingthe scoringwithapointeach. On a cold night there was mercifully little injury time except for the time lost when Jack Larkin took what seemed like an age to get up after clattering into Dempsey’sMarkBarry. He did play on for a while but eventually made his way tothesideline.

Laois will feel this is a game that they left behind, as a glorious goal chance was coughed up just before the break,withOffaly’sthirdgoal due to a mix up in defence with Laois hitting an endless amount of wides on top of that. Laois reduced a 16 point deficit to four points come the full time whistle, but in truth Offaly were always aheadandneverreallylooked like losing, with Corey White very impressive in the full forwardline. Offaly started the game superbly registering three points early on, before Oisin Byrne opened Laois’s account.

Offaly midfielder Morgan Tynan then got the games opening goal, after a superb solorunandfinishtotheback ofthenet,togivehissideafive point advantage and it left Laois chasing the game in the earlystages. Offaly had built up a seven point lead before Corey White found the back of the net, after a superb set up by Morgan Tynan, with White tapping home from close range and in truth it looked like it may be a one sided contest at this stage, as Offaly heldatenpointadvantage. Laois responded well though and 1-1 in succession from wing forward Paul O’Flynnreducedthedeficitto sixpoints.

Momentum was with Laois at this stage and a couple of more scores from the O’Moore county could have put them in serious contention at the break, but instead it was Offaly who registered the crucial points, adding five in succession before the interval, to leave the score-board reading 2-10 to1-2infavourofOffalyathalf time. A poor kick-out from the Laois goalkeeper gave Offaly the chance to score a third goal and the Faithful county seized the opportunity, with Corey White finding the back of the net to give his side a 16 pointcushion.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie Courtwood's strong debut sees off spirited Louth contenders St. Mochtas’ Leinster intermediate adventure was brought to a halt in Ardee on Saturday afternoon, despite launching a spirited late revival. The Louth Village outfit had Eamon O’Neill back in the team following his absence for the first round win over Longwood, but, at the same venue, they sampled defeat for the first time since mid-summer, going down to Courtwood in what was the Laois men’s debutatthislevel.

Kildare’s Two Mile House now await the Midlanders in theprovinciallastfour. Declan Byrne once again led the charge for Seamus McGahon’s side, who fought back to claim a one-point interval advantage having conceded the first half’s only goal. But the visitors were the more accomplished of the pair and helped by a fine individual display by wing-forward Luke Doran, they came with a decisive third-quarterblitz. Thevictorswereworthyof a five-point lead with 10 minutes to play, having held Mochta’s scoreless for 19 minutes during the second period, in which time they found the net for a second time through the impressive SeánO’Flynn. Mochta’s have built much of their success this year on gaining and defending leads, though, to their credit, they finished much the stronger and helped by Ciarán McMahon’s rather fortuitous major, had Courtwood on edge as the game entered stoppagetime.

Here,thehostsgotonelast opportunity to salvage an unlikely victory and as Eamon O’Neill’s delivery rained down on the Courtwood goal, Byrne rose highestasthenetawaited. However, his fisted attempt skewed off target as Eddie Kinsella’s charges celebrated James King’s full-timewhistle. Theopeningwasfairlynip and tuck with the first six points being shared, Courtwood pegging Mochta’s backoneachoccasion,before the match’s opening goal arrivedon14minutes. Doran intercepted a sloppy pass from Philip Englishby before calmly angling his shot to the corner ofJasonCallan’snet. Yet Mochta’s reacted the better, closing the half with four of the final five points, McMahon, Byrne (2), Gerry Garland and Jamie Farrell edging them 0-8 to 1-3 in front. Danny Luttrell’s second 45 of the contest reduced the margin to the minimumathalf-time. Courtwood re-emerged the stronger, though, scoring thrice in succession in between points from Darren McMahon and Byrne as the teams stood on level terms with20minutestoplay. However, the Louth natives wouldn’t score again until McMahon’s trickled goal with a minute to go, which somehow evaded Courtwood ‘keeper Matthew Byron.

The Seatown outfit dominated the Dowdallshill clash in giving their most impressive display of the season, scoring 2-13 of their totalfromplay. The Maguires, Derek and Dean,provedhugelyeffective at either end of the pitch, while Jordan O’Donoghue maintained his eye-catching runofform. With each of their last threechampionshipmatches going to the wire, including theprovincialopeneragainst Westmeath’s Kilbeggan Shamrocks, Adrian O’Donoghue’s men seemed intent on making life a lot easier and having taken a fourth minute lead through captainCianONaraigh,itwas plainsailingalltheway. They built a match- winningadvantageinthefirst half, retreating to the dressing room with a nine-point lead, 1-8 to 0-2, and despite Annanough’s improvement on the resumption of play, the second half was merely a box-ticking exercise with the outcomeinnodoubt.

Annanough played a role in their own downfall, though, with both Conor and Rory Stapleton allowing the ball to trickle by as Dermot Mone poked home the breakthrough goal on 10 minutes. ‘Keeper Seán Hennessy was left helpless on that occasion, but he did intervene shortly before half-time to deny Young Irelandsasecondmajor. Conor Hennessy provided the Midlanders’ biggest threat, the stocky forward scoring their only two points at either end of the first period. John Scully doubled the visitors’ account with a pair of raking points in the early knockings of the second half, but only after O Naraigh and O’Donoghue (free) had extended Young Irelands’ lead.

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie PORTLAOISE MOOREFIELD ANDREW EGAN at Newbridge 1-14 1-11 LEINSTER CHAMPIONSHIP QUARTER-FINAL Supreme first half sees Portlaoise exact revenge on Leinster champions Last year Portlaoise fell to a heart-breaking loss to Moorefield, and had to grit their teeth as they watched theKildareoutfitmarchonto provincialglory. They had to wait 364 days for their chance at revenge, but they had no hesitation in grasping it, as they booked a semi-final clash with Dublin champions Kilmacud Crokes.

Paul Cahillane, who has been plagued by injuries throughout this season, opened the scoring from play after he got on the end of a ConorBoylepass. Cahillane was then fouled offtheballbyMoorefield,and the Portlaoise sharpshooter made them pay with his secondpoint. Eddie Heavey got Moorefield up and running, but Portlaoise were cleaning up around the centre, and thisallowedCraigRogersand Cahillanetoknockoverafree each. Portlaoise’s midfield pairing of Kieran Lillis and Ciaran McEvoy were the catalyst for their dominant first half, as Moorefield’s talented youngster Aaron Masterson was being watchedcarefully. Moorefield did carve out a couple of half-goal chances, but Graham Brody proved to beverytoughtobeatbetween theposts.

He pulled off great saves from Eddie Heavey and then minutes later from Ronan Sweeney, with Niall Hurley Lynch putting over therebound. Portlaoise then scored a goal out of nothing. Gareth Dillon’s effort fell well short, but Moorefield keeper Thomas Corley never looked comfortable with it, and he palmeditbacktoPortlaoise. Craig Rogers was slipped intogivetheawaysupporters morereasontocelebrate. Moorefield were struggling down both ends, with Eddie Heavey’s direct running one of their few shining lights, and he earned Adam Tyrell a free to slot over.

However, Portlaoise remained on top, with the excellent Kieran Lillis getting his name on the score sheet, before Craig Rogers and Ricky Maher raised further whiteflags. Tyrell and Cahillane exchanged frees before the break, as Portlaoise led 1-8 to 0-4inNewbridge. Despite getting outfought in the first half, Moorefield haveareputationfornotlying down, and they got themselves back in the game early in the second half. Ronan Sweeney pointed, before they grabbed a goalback. Kieran Lillis’s ball out from the back was intercepted by James Murray, who gave it to Eddie Heavey. Heavey’s shot dropped into Brody’s arms, but he uncharacteristically fumbled, and Niall Hurley Lynch swooped in to slap home as the Moorefield crowdroaredinjubilation. Portlaoise responded to this setback fantastically though, as Brian McCormack settled them down with his first score of the afternoon, and Cahillane added two morepointstohisname. Moorefield’s comeback had been stopped in its tracks, but they had a bit of a breeze this half, and Eanna O’Connor and Ronan Sweeney reduced the difference to four. Gareth Dillon was tackling and carrying ball at a frightful speed, and he set up Brian McCormack for his second point.

TURNING POINT Five minutes into the second half after the Moorefield goal, Brian McCormack and Cahillane stood tall to push Portlaoise back into a six point advantage. TALKING POINT After an underwhelming county final performance, it was hard to know how well Portlaoise would fare in Leinster, but this was them back to their best. They shouldn’t fear Dublin representatives Kilmacud Crokes next. WHAT NOW? Portlaoise look forward to a semi-final meeting with Kilmacud Crokes in Parnell Park in two weeks time.

SPORT GAELIC GAMES 79

LEINSTER EXPRESS Tuesday, November 13, 2018 www.leinsterexpress.ie ‘ ‘T TO OW WN N’ ’ S SO OL LI ID DE ER R O ON N P Po or rt tl la ao oi is se e t ta ak ke e d do ow wn n d de ef fe en nd di in ng g c ch ha am mp pi io on ns s M Mo oo or re ef fi ie el ld d S Se ee e p pa ag ge e 7 79 9 Ricky Maher drives past the outstretched arm of Moorefield Liam Callaghan during the AIB Senior Football Leinster Club Championship Portlaoise set up semi-final clash with Kilmacud Crokes Portlaoise expunged last year's heart-breaking loss to Moorefield in Newbridge on Sunday when they dispatched the Leinster champions in emphatic style . They had to wait 364 days for their shot at revenge, but they had nohesitationingraspingit,booking a semi-final clash with Dublin championsKilmacudCrokes. Paul Cahillane, who has been plagued by injuries throughout this season, opened the scoring from play after he got on the end of a ConorBoylepass.

Portlaoise’s midfield pairing of Kieran Lillis and Ciaran McEvoy proved the catalyst for their dominantfirsthalf. Despite getting outfought in the first half, Moorefield's reputation Sport Tuesday, November 13 www.leinsterexpress.ie No joy for O'Moore’s: Laois champs battle hard but bow out of Leinster See page 76 Leinster Express for not lying down proved justified , and they got themselves back in the game early in the second half, aided byaNiallHurleyLynchgoal. Portlaoise responded to this setback fantastically though, as Brian McCormack settled them down with his first score of the afternoon, and Cahillane added two morepointstohisname.